As production continues for Baz Luhrmann’s Elvis in Australia, Deadline brings word that the upcoming biographical drama has added another cast member, who will be joining lead stars Austin Butler and Tom Hanks. Newcomer Alton Mason has officially joined the ensemble cast, portraying the role of iconic rock ‘n’ roll figure Little Richard, who passed away last year at the age of 87.
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Austin Butler (Once Upon a Time in Hollywood, The Dead Don’t Die) is starring in the lead role as Elvis alongside Oscar winner Tom Hanks (A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood, The Post), who is playing Presley’s manager Colonel Tom Parker, and Olivia DeJonge (The Visit), who will play Presley’s only wife Priscilla. It will also feature Oscar nominee Maggie Gyllenhaal as Gladys Presley, Rufus Sewell as Vernon Presley, and English musician Yola as Sister Rosetta Tharpe.
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The movie will explore the life and music of Elvis through his complicated relationship with his manager, Colonel Tom Parker. Parker discovered Presley when he was just an unknown and quickly moved in as his lone representation. Parker was responsible for various milestones, including Presley’s record deal with RCA and his successful acting career.
The Elvis biopic will be co-written by Luhrmann, who will direct, and BAFTA winner Craig Pearce (Romeo + Juliet, Moulin Rouge!). Luhrmann will also produce alongside Oscar winner Catherine Martin (The Great Gatsby), Gail Berman, Patrick McCormick, and Schuyler Weiss. Andrew Mittman will serve as an executive producer
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The film is still set for its theatrical release on November 5, 2021.
(Photo by Claudio Lavenia/Getty Images)
