A weird role indeed
If someone were to ask you who would play Weird Al in his biopic, the first answer that comes to mind probably wouldn't be Daniel Radcliffe.
However, since leaving the 'Harry Potter' franchise, Radcliffe has carved out his own non-traditional path with some very interesting roles, avoiding the mainstream for the most part. So, when you have a look at his niche casting journey, it's no surprise he's been chosen for the role.
The 32 year-old will star in the comedy-biopic, produced by Funny or Die and Tango and set to air on the Roku Channel.
Titled 'Weird: The Al Yankovic Story', the movie "holds nothing back, exploring every facet of Yankovic's life, from his meteoric rise to fame with early hits like 'Eat It' and 'Like a Surgeon' to his torrid celebrity love affairs and famously depraved lifestyle.
"'Weird: The Al Yankovic Story' takes audiences on a truly unbelievable journey through Yankovic’s life and career. From gifted child prodigy to the greatest musical legend of all time."
Filming begins in Los Angeles in February. Yankovic himself and Eric Appel wrote the script. Appel is also directing and executive producing the film. In 2010 the two released a fake trailer for the the same movie, which is now coming to fruition.
Yankovic stated: "When my last movie 'UHF' came out in 1989, I made a solemn vow to my fans that I would release a major motion picture every 33 years, like clockwork. I'm very happy to say we’re on schedule."
He added, "I am absolutely thrilled that Daniel Radcliffe will be portraying me in the film. I have no doubt whatsoever that this is the role future generations will remember him for."
Radcliffe also features in the upcoming film The Lost City alongside Sandra Bullock and Channing Tatum.