After the recent casting of Elvis Presley’s mother in Baz Luhrmann’s currently untitled biopic about the king of rock and roll, The Hollywood Reporter announced that actor Rufus Sewell has been picked to portray Vernon Presley, the father of Presley. Sewell will star opposite of Maggie Gyllenhaal, who became a recent addition to the cast as she will portray Gladys Presley.
The pending Warner Bros film is noted for its extreme focus on Elvis’ climb to the, top with a major emphasis on his complex relationship with his manager Colonel Tom Parker. The film features Austin Butler as rock and roll sensation Elvis, while the stalwart Tom Hanks expected to portray Parker, who had a firm grip on Presley and his promising career. The studio best describes Luhrmann’s musical drama as a layered story that will “delve into their complex dynamic spanning over 20 years, from Presley’s rise to fame to his unprecedented stardom, against the backdrop of the evolving cultural landscape and the loss of innocence in America.”
Aside from directing, Luhrmann will also contribute as a producer on the film alongside his wife, Catherine Martin. Sewell is best known for his work on Judy and the critically-adored Amazon series The Man in High Castle.
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