The Mummy star Brendan Fraser to play 600-pound gay man in new film The Whale

Words: Jamie Tabberer; picture: Universal Pictures

Brendan Fraser is to play a 600-pound gay man in new movie The Whale, according to reports.

Darren Aronofsky will direct and the screenplay will by adapted by playwright Samuel D. Hunter from his 2012 play of the same name, reports Deadline.

The story involves a reclusive father who is slowly eating himself to death who tries to reach out to his estranged teen daughter.

“A real labour of love”

Hunter told the publication: “Adapting my play into a screenplay has been a real labour of love for me.

“This story is deeply personal and I’m very thankful it will have the chance to reach a wider audience.

“I’ve been a fan of Darren’s ever since I saw [his film] Requiem for a Dream when I was a college freshman writing my first plays, and I’m so grateful that he’s bringing his singular talent and vision to this film.”

Hunter’s play has won a Drama Desk Award, a Lucille Lortel Award for Outstanding Play and a GLAAD Media Award, among others.

A24 will have worldwide rights to the film.

Fraser is known for films roles such as The Mummy and George of the Jungle.

Aronofsky’s other films include mother! starring Jennifer Lawrence and Black Swan starring Natalie Portman.

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