This is going to be good!
Actor Wendell Pierce is set to play B.B. King in a new biopic about the iconic blues singer, EW reports.
King was one of the most influential blues musicians of our time with a career spanning six decades. The icon released more than 40 studio albums and 16 live albums, accumulating 15 Grammys, a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award, and an induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame before he passed in 2015 at 89.
Now, actor Wendell Pierce, best known for his roles in cult classics like The Wire and Treme, announced that he would be playing the blues singer in an upcoming biopic. “We are official. Preparation has begun on a film where I will be honored to play the great BB King. Humbled,” Pierce captioned a picture of him and the late icon.
We are official. Preparation has begun on a film where I will be honored to play the great, BB King. Humbled. pic.twitter.com/Y9JJvA3WW2
— Wendell Pierce (@WendellPierce) October 19, 2020
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The Thrill Is On, is a drama focused on King’s life, centering his friendship with young musician Michael Zanetis, who is co-writing the script. Fans have already begun praising the casting, noting the uncanny resemblance between Pierce and King. R&B singer Tank sent out a tweet in support of Pierce saying “WOW!!! You are absolutely the artist to paint this colossal cathedral!”
Pierce is no stranger to the big screen, with a career spanning more than three decades. In addition to his work on screen, he is also a Peabody-award winning radio host, known for his weekly jazz radio show and his jazz albums including records with Wynton Marsalis and Kermit Ruffins. During his role as Antoine Batiste in Treme, he played a trombone, learning to play the instrument for the role. His reputation speaks for himself and will help bring King to life.
No word yet on when production will begin but we’re definitely on the lookout!
Congratulations, Wendell!
Photo Courtesy of REX/Paul Natkin/Getty Images