The role of Notorious B.I.G. for an upcoming biopic on the rapper will be filled through an open casting call, the film’s producers said Thursday.
Notorious, which has been in the works for nearly seven years, will seek its star by auditioning actors and non-actors alike who resemble the rapper, whose real name was Christopher Wallace. Anyone can submit audition videos beginning 3 a.m. EDT Sunday to FoxSearchlight.com/Notorious or BiggieCasting.com.
Wallace’s mother, Voletta Wallace, and his two former managers, Wayne Barrow and Mark Pitts, are producing the movie.
Wallace was gunned down at the age of 24 on March 9, 1997, after a music-industry party in Los Angeles.
In a statement, Voletta Wallace described the qualities the producers are seeking.
“There will only be one Christopher Wallace, but I’m happy that his legacy will open a door for another to walk through,” said Wallace. “I don’t want you to just imitate him. I want to see his swagger, his style, his energy and smile come through.”
Fox Searchlight on Thursday also said that George Tillman (Men of Honor, Soul Food) will direct. The producers hope to begin production this fall.
