The Bob Marley story has already been told in an epic documentary and stage musical, but it's now getting the biopic treatment.
After an extensive, yearlong and globe-spanning search, Kingsley Ben-Adir, fresh off of playing Malcolm X in “One Night in Miami,” has been tapped to portray a different icon, the music legend credited with popularizing reggae music.
The movie will be directed by Reinaldo Marcus Green, who made his directorial debut with King Richard.
The studio has not disclosed specific plot details, but the film will focus on Marley’s life and career. Considered the pioneer of reggae music, Marley, a native of Jamaica, began performing in 1963 with The Wailers.
He went solo more than a decade later in 1974 and had a profound impact on the music landscape before he died of cancer in 1981 at the age of 36. Some of his biggest hits include “Jammin,” “Stir It Up,” “Get Up, Stand Up,” “Buffalo Soldier” and “Redemption Song.”
Reggae legend Marley died in 1981 at age 36. His son Ziggy Marley, wife Rita Marley and daughter Cedella Marley will serve as producers on the movie.
Ben-Adir was spotted filming for the upcoming Bob Marley biopic movie for the first time earlier this year in London.
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Kingsley Ben-Adir was spotted filming for the upcoming Bob Marley biopic movie for the first time earlier this week in London.
The actor, 36, known for his role in Peaky Blinders, transformed into the late Jamaican musician with a 70s inspired costume for the first bout of filming.
Looking at the life, career and tragic 1981 death of the legendary reggae singer, the yet-to-be named film will reportedly have his family serving as producers on set.