George Michael ‘turned down’ leading role in Four Weddings and a Funeral
15 October 2019, 14:28
George Michael apparently “turned down” a lead part in film Four Weddings and a Funeral, it has now been revealed.
The Wham! singer, who died on Christmas Day 2016 aged 53, had been offered a part by director Richard Curtis and also asked to provide music for the soundtrack.
A friend of the star has revealed the singer was once lined up for the part but pulled out as the time “wasn’t quite right”.
Last Christmas movie: Trailer, cast, plot, soundtrack, release date and all you need to know
Instead, George decided to focus on his own music around the time of the 1994 hit movie.
Wet Wet Wet recorded ‘Love Is All Around’ for the soundtrack, which topped the charts at number one for 15 weeks.
A friend of the late singer told The Mirror: “The role was for a gay character and he was incredibly flattered to be asked but decided against it.
“Likewise providing the music. It’s amazing that years later George’s music is finally centre-stage of a film. He would have loved it.”
The late star’s music will feature in the George-inspired Last Christmas, due for cinematic release on November 15.
Co-scripted by Emma Thompson, who also stars alongside Emilia Clarke and Henry Golding in the film, wanted to make a film inspired by George’s song ‘Last Christmas’ and even visited him in 2013 at his London home, where he gave her his blessing.
Emma said: “The wisdom and emotional scope of George’s lyrics have always amazed me.”
The film’s soundtrack will also be released on November 8 and features three Wham! songs, plus a brand new song.
