The star of Bruno and Borat, Sacha Baron Cohen, has signed on to portray Freddie Mercury, the late lead singer of Queen, in a biopic following the band's formative years through its Live Aid performance in 1985.
After the project was in limbo for a couple of years, confirmation Thursday revealed that the comic actor would depict the flamboyant singer, per Deadline Hollywood. The film will not cover Mercury's illness from complications due to AIDS.
For the first time, rights were obtained for the use of Queen's signature songs, Bohemian Rhapsody, We Will Rock You, We Are the Champions, Another One Bites the Dust and You're My Best Friend for a film based on the group.
It is unknown if Baron Cohen will sing or Mercury's vocals will be used. He is currently in production with Martin Scorsese's 3D drama Hugo Cabret.
Robert De Niro's Tribeca Productions will partner as producers with the surviving band members' Queen Films and GK Films. It is scheduled to begin shooting next year.
{{/usCountry}}Robert De Niro's Tribeca Productions will partner as producers with the surviving band members' Queen Films and GK Films. It is scheduled to begin shooting next year.
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