Gregg Allman to Be Played By William Hurt in Upcoming Movie
Actor William Hurt is set to star as the adult Gregg Allman in a forthcoming film based on the long-time Allman Brothers Band leader's memoir 'My Cross to Bear.'
'Midnight Rider' will tell the story of Allman's earliest days through the formation and early success of the Allman Brothers Band, as well as the health struggles Allman sufferred through in his 60s which ultimately led to him cleaning up his life. Filming is scheduled to begin this February in Savannah, Ga.
Allman says he's taking a hands-on approach with the script, which was co-written by Jody Savin and 'Midnight Rider' director Randall Miller. Already he's vetoed a scene with his late brother Duane Allman which featured dialogue that Gregg deemed inappropriate. "It's time consuming and tedious work to get it all right," Allman says. "I don't know firsthand because it hasn't started yet, but I know I need to be there every single day if I want it done right."
Tyson Ritter, lead singer of pop-rock group the All-American Rejects, will play the young Gregg Allman. Wyatt Russell ('Cowboys & Aliens,' 'This Is 40') will portray Duane Allman.