An intrepid young actor is about to step into Michael Jackson's shoes.
NBC has announced the latest round of casting for its live adaptation of The Wiz. Singer Ne-Yo will play the Tin Man, rapper Common will play the Bouncer, the gatekeeper of the Emerald City, and Elijah Kelley will play the Scarecrow. The latter role was played by Michael Jackson in the 1978 film adaptation.
Nope, no pressure there.
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Kelley has musical experience, previously starring in the 2007 film adaptation of Hairspray. As Seaweed, he proved he's got killer vocals and limber dance moves to boot, which will serve him well in a role made famous by the King of Pop.
Ne-Yo will be the Tin Man, played by iconic comedian Nipsey Russell in the film. The Grammy-winner has lightly flexed his acting chops before, most recently in the historical World War II drama Red Tails.
Recent Oscar-winner Common has long been in the acting game, recently starring in Selma and the TV series Hell on Wheels. He also has a role in the upcoming comic book film Suicide Squad.
The Wiz Live! will air on NBC on Dec. 3.