Entertainment
Tiger King mini-series finally casts its Joe Exotic – and we’re sorry to tell you it’s not Nicolas Cage
The limited drama series based on Tiger King Joe Exotic’s feud with Carole Baskin has found his leading man – and we’re sorry to say it’s not Nicolas Cage.
Despite the actor being previously connected to play the volatile roadside zoo owner – who is currently in prison for the murder-for-hire of Baskin – the team have cast someone with a fabulous twist who is sure to bring the complicated character to life.
John Cameron Mitchell, who is best known as the creator and star of Broadway show Hedwig And The Angry Inch, will take on the convict – whose real name is Joe Maldonado-Passage – as his fight with Big Cat Rescue activist Baskin continues to spiral out of control.
On the news, he said: ‘I’m thrilled to take on the role of this modern folk antihero.
‘Joe and I are the same age and like him, I grew up queer in Texas, Oklahoma and Kansas so I feel like I know a little bit about this guy and his desperate attempt to conquer an inhospitable world.’
He joins Saturday Night Live star Kate McKinnon on the cast, who will play his nemesis Baskin and was announced last year.
The series will retell the story of the pair’s clash over animal rights and animal abuse, with Baskin and Big Cat Rescue aiming to close the Exotic-owned GW Zoo after taking exception to his welfare of the animals.
But as the rivalry continues to escalate, including million-dollar lawsuits for copyright infringement, murder accusations and attempts to shut the zoo down, things begin to get more and more out of hand.
‘It’s clear that an over-the-top character like Joe needed someone very special,’ said Steven O’Neill, EVP, Casting & Talent Development at UCP.
‘We are so excited to have John Cameron Mitchell, an adored icon of the LGBTQ community, take on this compelling role.
‘His casting speaks to our ongoing vision of universal storytelling, and we can’t wait for our audiences to experience the show.’
The release date for the new series is not yet known.
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