Update: Brian May: 'Sacha Baron Cohen biopic announcement was a joke'

Sacha Baron Cohen has rejoined the upcoming Freddie Mercury biopic.

The comedian, who previously exited the project after reportedly falling out with the remaining members of Queen, will now help to write, produce and direct the movie, as well as taking the lead role.



Music Week reports that the band's manager of 40 years, Jim Beach, announced Baron Cohen's re-appointment at the Artist and Manager Awards 2015 last night (March 26).

Skyfall actor Ben Whishaw had been singled out by Queen drummer Roger Taylor as a preferred replacement for Baron Cohen back in 2013.

The band also expressed concerns that the comedian's involvement would turn the project, based on the late singer's life, into "a joke".

Sacha Baron Cohen can next be seen in the Louis Leterrier-directed spy spoof Grimsby.

The comedy, which also stars Rebel Wilson, Penelope Cruz, Ian McShane, Gabourey Sidibe, Isla Fisher and Annabelle Wallis, will be released on July 31.

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