We know we promised no more Hairspray casting stories, but this one’s a little bit more interesting.
Jim Broadbent is no longer playing Wilbur Turnblad – father of the lead character Tracy. Nope, for unexplained reasons he’s out and Christopher Walken is in. Yes, that’s right – the legendary dance fanatic will be putting his skills to use opposite John Travolta in drag. We can picture it now. Pardon us while we take a shower…
Much better. While he didn’t reveal the reason for Broadbent being announced and then replaced, director Adam Shankman has been talking up the new Wilbur. "Chris was the person Scott and I wanted in the first place, and this is a happy ending to this particular saga," Shaiman told Variety. "It seems like this part allows him to coalesce all his skills into one role. I am constantly pessimistic, but I look at this cast and feel like I've fallen into an old MGM musical."
Whatever makes you happy, Shankman. Hairspray arrives next year