The Great Gatsby director Baz Luhrmann is making an Elvis Presley biopic, and given the Oscar nominated director being attached and the enduring popularity of Elvis, it is a highly sought-after role. The names of the actors who have tested for the role have now been revealed.
According to The Hollywood Reporter and other sources, Ansel Elgort (Baby Driver), Aaron Taylor-Johnson (Kick-Ass), and Miles Teller (Whiplash) have all tested already.
In addition, singer Harry Styles of One Direction and Austin Butler (Once Upon a Time in Hollywood). It’s not clear if any other actors have tested so far or if studio WarnerBros. is favoring any actor in particular at this juncture. Whatever the case, THR says WarnerBros. is looking to cast its Elvis in the “coming weeks.”
What is already confirmed is that Tom Hanks will play Colonel Tom Parker, who was Elvis’ manager. The film will reportedly cover Elvis’ life, and specifically his relationship with Parker.
While Styles might be considered the most notable singer of the reported contenders, all of the Elvis candidates mentioned in the reports can sing.
Luhrmann earned the Best Picture Oscar nomination for 2001’s Moulin Rouge. He also directed the movies Romeo + Juliet, Australia, and The Great Gatsby, all of which were critically acclaimed.
