FIRST LOOK: Joseph Fiennes in his controversial role as Michael Jackson
The first trailer from Sky Arts' Urban Myths has been released, with late period Michael Jackson controversially played by Joseph Fiennes
The first images of Joseph Fiennes playing King of Pop Michael Jackson have dropped, reigniting the controversy over the actor’s casting.
Joseph plays the late singer in Sky Arts series Urban Myths, which tells a collection of fabled tales including one about Michael taking a road trip from New York to Los Angeles with Elizabeth Taylor and Marlon Brando following the terrorist attacks in America on 9/11.
There was a backlash when it was announced last year, with critics asking why a white actor had been cast to play a black star.
The first trailer has now been released, showing Joseph as Michael.
https://youtu.be/le7214gXqB0
Get the What to Watch Newsletter
The latest updates, reviews and unmissable series to watch and more!
As a result, many people have been taking to social media to express their disgust at the casting.
However, Ben Palmer, who directed four episodes of the series, has defended the decision, saying it was based on performance and not looks.
He was quoted by The Guardian as saying: “We were casting Michael Jackson in 2001 and that obviously is a challenge in terms of the physical resemblance.
“We were really looking for the performance that could unlock the spirit, and we really think Joe Fiennes has done that. He’s given a really sweet, nuanced, characterful performance.”
Stockard Channing stars as Taylor and Brian Cox plays Brando in the TV film.
PA Media is the national news agency for the UK and Ireland. With unrivalled access to the performers, productions and celebrities on both sides of the Atlantic, PA Media stories provide an irresistible glimpse into showbiz news. Bringing you all of entertainment's big moments. From daily soaps to film productions, we cover the shows that audiences want to know about with our previews, news and interviews.