Sacha Baron Cohen Drops Out Of Freddie Mercury Biopic

Although Borat star Sacha Baron Cohen was on board to play Freddie Mercury in the upcoming Queen biopic, it appears that he has dropped out due to creative differences with the remaining members of the band.

Deadline reports that the conflict arose out of Cohen's desire to portray a grittier, R-rated version of Freddie Mercury, whereas the band -- who have final script and director approval -- wants a more family friendly depiction. Cohen brought in Peter Morgan to write and directors David Fincher and Tom Hooper, none of whom received approval from the surviving members of Queen.

No word yet who will replace Cohen, but the film is still slated to go forward regardless. Stay tuned here for further updates.