Sublime biopic to star Kiwi actor KJ Apa

Saturday, 21 September 2024

An upcoming biopic about US ska band Sublime will star Kiwi actor KJ Apa.

Apa reportedly spent two years chasing the chance to play the frontman of the band Bradley Nowell.

Nowell died of a heroin overdose in 1996, but the band recently reunited with his son Jakob as the frontman.

New Zealand actor KJ Apa is set to star in a new biopic about the US ska band Sublime.

The film by 3000 Pictures is in development with Justin Chon, best known for the 2021 drama film Blue Bayou, on board to direct.

Sublime were formed in Long Beach, California in 1988 and are known for their 90s hit singles like What I Got and Santeria.

In 1996, frontman Bradley Nowell died of a heroin overdose resulting in the band’s break up. But the band recently reunited with Nowell’s son Jakob taking over for his dad.

The biopic was first announced two years ago with Francis Lawrence, director of I Am Legend and The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes, executive producing.

Bud Gaugh and Eric Wilson, original members of Sublime, are also producing the film along with Jakob and Nowell’s widow Troy.

Apa spent almost two years chasing the role once he became aware of the project. He sent in numerous self-tapes to show his dedication to the part, according to reporting by Deadline.

Apa is known for his breakout role as Archie in the series Riverdale.