Casting directors for the upcoming Bob Marley biopic, being produced by Paramount Pictures, are currently seeking actors and actresses to fulfill several roles for the film.

One group in particular that the casting directors are looking for are prospects to play The Wailers (ages 17-35).

With news emerging that British actress Lashana Lynch, who has Jamaican roots, has been selected to play an adult Rita Marley, while British actor Kingsley Ben-Adir, who has Trinidad roots, landed the role of an adult Bob Marley, came as a surprise to many and to the disappointment of some.

While many Jamaicans would have loved to see a fellow Jamaican play the role of adult Bob, there is still some hope that there will be talented Jamaicans on the screens once the biopic is completed.

If you have what it takes to be cast as a member of The Wailers, make sure you mark the dates. Auditions for several roles will take place at the AC Hotel in St Andrew tomorrow (August 27) and Sunday (August 28), while those on the western end of the island will get the chance to audition on September 3 at the Montego Bay Convention Centre in St James.

Jamaica has a number of existing young, talented reggae artistes who, without a doubt, would do an exceptional job. Our Today has put together a list of two Jamaicans who would fit well in roles as members of the Wailers group.

Sheldon Shepherd

Sheldon R. Shepherd is a multi-talented Jamaican. He is an actor, artist, and author. Shepherd is no stranger to the big screen as he has starred in several films over the years. He is most known for Better Mus’ Come (2010) and Yardie (2018).

There is no doubt that this is a film Shepherd can easily fit into, if he were to receive a role.

Immanuel Kerr

Reggae singer and producer Immanuel ‘Ras-I’ Kerr would make an excellent member of the Wailers group – from his looks to his captivating voice. The multifaceted artiste sings, writes and arranges all his songs, produces, plays guitar, keyboard and percussions.

Ras-I classifies his music as roots reggae with notes of old school rhythm and blues and a little funk. He draws from the exemplary influences of reggae veterans like Bob Marley, Dennis Brown, U-Roy and Peter Tosh.

The artiste, who practically grew up at Tuff Gong Studios, could fit into the role of any member of the Wailers group.

The roles and requirements

Bunny Livingston

Male
Black
Jamaican
Age range: 30’s
He is Bob’s stepbrother and former band member of the Wailers.
Gender: Male
Age: 30-30
Payment: Paid
Expenses: No
Experience Requirement: Amateur

Peter Tosh

Male
Black
Jamaican
Dark-skinned
Age: 31 years old
Now a full-blown rockstar, touring with The Rolling Stones, he has come back to see Bob’s show in Jamaica. He and Bob are reunited after Bob’s time in London.
Gender: Male
Age: 31-31
Payment: Paid
Expenses: No
Experience Requirement: Amateur

Family Man Barrett (Supporting Role)

Male
Black
Jamaican
Age: 30 years old
The Wailers’ Rasta bassist, cooler than sea breeze.
Father of 29 children.
Always by Bob’s side, leader of the pack.
Gender: Male
Age: 30-30
Payment: Paid
Expenses: No
Experience Requirement: Amateur

Carlton ‘Carly’ Barrett (Supporting Role)

Male
Black
Jamaican
Age 27 years old
The Wailers’ drummer and Family Man’s younger brother. Soft-spoken.
Gender: Male
Age: 27-27
Payment: Paid
Expenses: No
Experience Requirement: Amateur

Tyrone Downie (Supporting Role)

Male
Black
Jamaican
Age: 19 years old
The Wailers’ keyboard prodigy
Skinny build
Gender: Male
Age: 19-19
Payment: Paid
Expenses: No
Experience Requirement: Amateur

If you’ve got the talent and wish to showcase it, avoid the long lines and sign up in advance for time slots online.