Charley Pride to Be Portrayed by Dwayne Johnson in New Film
Charley Pride has sold more than 70 million albums in his legendary career that began with his debut album, 'Country,' more than 45 years ago. The Country Music Hall of Fame member will have his life chronicled in a new film, with actor (and former wrestling star) Dwayne Johnson portraying the iconic singer, as well as serving as one of the producers.
The movie has been in development for several years, with musician and actor Terrence Howard originally cast in the role of Charley. But cast changes came after new management took over the studio that was developing the biopic. Still, the 73-year-old singer says the change is actually a blessing in disguise.
"Now it's back on track again, but with action and comedy star Dwayne Johnson portraying me in the title role," Charley tells Canada's Telegraph-Journal. "Terrence is no doubt a more in-depth actor academically, but Dwayne is such a force on screen. It startled me a little at first, but he flew down to Dallas and spent a day with me just sitting, talking recently. When he left it was like parting with an old friend. We had such similar views on so many things."
Dwayne, who as "The Rock" enjoyed a successful career as a pro-wrestler and spokesman for WWE for 15 years, is no stranger to acting. His previous credits include roles in 'The Scorpion King,' 'Tooth Fairy' and 'Get Smart,' as well as several television appearances. Music producer and 'American Idol' judge Randy Jackson, as well as Charley's manager John Daines and Dwayne's former wife, Dany Garcia, will also produce the film.
Charley released his latest studio album, 'Choices,' in March. The CD, filled with songs by his favorite writers, including Ben Peters and Ted Harris, is one of his personal favorites. "We cherry-picked and that's why I feel the album is such a good album," he tells The Boot. "We picked the best that we could out of the 20 some [songs] that we had."
No word yet on when filming of the biopic will begin. The Mississippi native will spend most of the next couple weeks on the road, including a series of shows this week in Canada. Keep track of his tour schedule here.