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Ending speculation about who would star in the highly anticipated biographical film, a report released Friday by Variety confirmed that British actor Christian Bale is set to play Michael Jordan in an upcoming film about the basketball star’s life and career.
“Christian is thrilled to be portraying arguably the greatest basketball player of all time on the big screen,” Bale’s agent, Toby Markson, wrote in a statement. “Given his talent and unique audience appeal, and also the fact that he is white, we’re fairly certain that this will be another critical and financial success for our team and for the heads at Miramax. And don’t worry: Christian looks great in Chicago Bulls red.”
Other stars rumored to have been in consideration for the role include Daniel Day-Lewis, Steve Buscemi, Patrick Stewart, and Richard Harris, though each of the aforementioned stars is reportedly still being considered for the roles of Dennis Rodman and Scottie Pippen. No director is yet attached, though Steven Spielberg and several other white male directors are currently in talks with producers.
“I’m currently learning the rules of basketball and working on my jump shot,” said Bale, a white British man who hadn’t ever played basketball prior to signing on to the film. “Who knows, maybe I’ll pick it up as a hobby after we’re done shooting?”
At press time, Idris Elba is set to play the villain in the film, whoever that is.
