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Doubts expressed by screenwriter Peter Morgan over the future of the planned Freddie Mercury film aren't true apparently. Digital Spy report that those in the know say the project "is very much alive", contrary to rumours that it was about to be shelved after Sacha Baron Cohen pulled out in July.

Cohen, 41, who was lined up to star as the Queen frontman, pulled out in July citing "creative differences" with surviving members of the 1970's rock band Brian May and Roger Taylor. His exit prompted Morgan to say that the film is "probably not going to happen" according to a BBC tweet this weekend.

According to Deadline, Cohen envisioned the film to be a more "gritty tell-all" whereas the band wanted a more family-friendly account of the singer and showman who died of complications related to AIDS on November 24 1991.

(Image: PA)

This biopic has been in the pipeline for years, with Brian May confirming in 2010 that he'd been talking to Cohen "for a long time" although he did also hint at problems saying there were "hiccups...to do with people getting on artistically and personally."

The movie focuses on the years leading up to the band's performance at Live Aid in 1985. There had been problems before Cohen's departure though with Morgan previously commenting that “The other band members didn’t want to be involved in a film that was just about Freddie.

“Queen are sensitive about the film and me writing it because it will expose some of the resentments and divisions in the band.”

Sacha’s departure is no doubt a huge blow - not only does he resemble Freddie, but he can also hold a tune. If the project goes ahead who could be next in line to take on the role? Let us know what you think below.