Jamie Foxx to Play Mike Tyson in Biopic
by Shannon KeirnanProfessional boxer Mike Tyson has confirmed that Jamie Foxx is in talks to portray him in an upcoming biopic.
"Me and Jamie Foxx are in discussion, and we're gonna do it. Within a year to 18 months, we're going to do the Mike Tyson story and he's going to portray me, and now they have this new animation; because you know Jamie's pretty much my age (48) so he can't portray me but they have this new system."
The biopic would focus on Tyson during the rise to the height of his career, so between ages 15 and 25. The system in reference is CGI technology used on Brad Pitt in "The Curious Case of Benjamin Button" which would reverse-age Foxx, 46, for the part.
Foxx has been eager to play the part of Tyson for years.
"I got a chance to hang out with Mike when Mike was at his height, and I watched [him] go from his height to where he is now, and I talked to him about doing his story," Foxx told "Live With Kelly and Michael."
"I think that story would be fantastic... and I had my makeup artist dress me up as Mike Tyson. People were literally coming up asking for autographs. So hopefully, Mike, if you're listening, let's make history."
Tyson has been spreading his story around lately, so Foxx's timing is perfect. He has a one-man show, Undisputed Truth, and a Spike Lee-directed HBO special. He also recently announced an animated series for Comedy Central which will revolve around him.
Would you go see a Mike Tyson biopic? Until then, catch Jamie Foxx as Electro in the upcoming "The Amazing Spider-Man 2."