Movies

Baron Cohen signs to play Freddie Mercury

Published Friday, Sep 17 2010, 05:15 BST | By Christian Tobin

Sacha Baron Cohen has agreed to play Freddie Mercury in a film telling the story of the rock band Queen, it has been revealed.

Cohen will play the legendary frontman in a movie penned by BAFTA-winning scriptwriter Peter Morgan, who has previously been responsible for The Queen, Frost/Nixon and The Damned United.

GK Films partners Graham King and Tim Headington will finance the as-yet-untitled picture, while the company has also closed a deal for the rights to include the band's music.

Surviving Queen members Brian May, Roger Taylor and John Deacon will have a say in the project through their production company Queen Films.

King said: "Queen is one of the greatest rock bands of all time, and a music brand all unto itself. Freddie Mercury was an awe-inspiring performer, so with Sacha in the starring role, coupled with Peter’s screenplay and the support of Queen, we have the perfect combination to tell the real story behind their success."

According to Deadline, the film will focus on the band's formative years, culminating with their seminal performance at Wembley Stadium for Live Aid in 1985.

Filming is expected to begin next year.