Sacha Baron Cohen lands Freddie Mercury role in Queen film

Sacha Baron Cohen is to play Freddie Mercury in a new film.

The British comedian has signed a deal to take on the role of the late Queen frontman in a movie being scripted by Peter Morgan.

The film will focus on the legendary group's formative years and will finish with their performance at 1985's 'Live Aid', which is considered one of the greatest rock sets of all-time.

The as-yet-untitled movie will be financed by GK Films partners Graham King and Tim Headington and the project will be produced in partnership with Robert De Niro and Jane Rosenthal's Tribeca Productions, and Queen Films.

King told Deadline.com: "Queen is one of the greatest rock bands of all time, and a music brand all unto itself. Freddie Mercury was an awe-inspiring performer, so with Sacha in the starring role coupled with Peter's screenplay and the support of Queen, we have the perfect combination to tell the real story behind their success."

However, it is unclear whether Cohen will sing Queen's hits or whether Mercury's vocals will be used.

Mercury died of AIDS aged 45 in November 1991 but his final days will not be a subject of the film.