Andre 3000 the surprise choice to play Hendrix

Outkast’s Andre 3000 (real name Andre Benjamin) has been announced as the shock choice to play legendary guitarist Jimi Hendrix in an upcoming Hollywood biopic.

Titled ‘All Is By My Side’, the film will focus on Hendrix’s time in England in 1966 and 1967 as he wrote and recorded his classic debut album ‘Are You Experienced?’.

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The film, which is unlikely to be a big budget affair, is being written and directed by John Ridley. His previous work includes the George Clooney-starring ‘Three Kings’.

‘Captain America’ actress Hayley Atwell has been reported as saying she had been approached for an undetermined part in the flick, but only the Outkast man has been confirmed.

Benjamin has few roles under his belt, his highest profile being in Will Ferrell comedy ‘Semi-Pro’ and Guy Ritchie’s ‘Revolver’.

The ‘Hey Ya!’ singer also starred in musical ‘Idlewild’ and wrote the tunes.

Filming is set to begin in Dublin and Wicklow, Ireland in three weeks time.