Adam Lambert Criticizes Suggested Casting for George Michael Biopic
Photo by Jeff Spicer/Getty Images for The National Lottery, Photo by Daniele Venturelli/WireImage Reading Time: 2 minutes
American Idol Season 8 runner-up Adam Lambert recently responded to rumors about actor Theo James playing music icon George Michael in a biopic. Lambert objected to the idea of a straight actor playing the musician, who was gay.
Adam Lambert Criticizes Suggested George Michael Casting
Theo James recently appeared on Watch What Happens Live, where he was asked if he would be interested in playing George Michael. James answered that he “would love that,” calling Michael “an icon.”
“He’s a lot of Greek, and I’m a lot of Greek. Put that Greek together, and you get falafel,” James added.
The Daily Mail even reported earlier this month that James was already tipped to play the singer an an upcoming biopic. This rumor was reposted by The Advocate on Instagram, adding James’ comments about wanting to take on the role.
Lambert commented on the post, writing, “Yay another straight man playing a gay icon.” He added an eye roll emoji. This is likely a reference to the recent biopics Bohemian Rhapsody and Rocketman, in which Freddie Mercury and Elton John were played by Rami Malek and Taron Egerton, respectively.
SEE ALSO: LIZ NAS X THANKS ‘AMERICAN IDOL’S ADAM LAMBERT FOR HIS SUPPORT
The Singer’s Estate Denies the Reports
Despite the rumors, George Michael’s estate released a statement earlier this week denying that the singer’s family had endorsed a biopic about him. It was published on the late singer’s website, putting the Daily Mail‘s recent report to rest.
“To all of George’s Lovelies, fans and lovers of his music, a story has been published stating that George Michael’s family has endorsed a so called ‘biopic’ about his life,” the statement reads. “On behalf of George’s family and GME we want to make it clear that there is no truth whatsoever in this story, we know nothing about this project and will not be endorsing it in any way.”
Interestingly, Lambert actually had a cameo in the 2018 Freddie Mercury biopic Bohemian Rhapsody. He described his role as “a trucker,” adding, “I cruise Freddie at the truck stop.”
