Robert O’Brien Claims Iconic Rocker Attempted to Purchase Film Rights to ‘Rocky Horror Picture Show’
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Robert O’Brien has recently revealed an interesting anecdote about a famous rocker’s attempt to acquire the film rights to the beloved classic ‘Rocky Horror Picture Show’. The revelation sheds new light on the early days of the iconic production.
The Rocky Horror Picture Show, a cult classic, garnered the attention of various prominent figures in Hollywood, including Mick Jagger, who expressed interest in acquiring the film rights. However, creator Richard O’Brien was determined to keep the production independent of big Hollywood names.
In a new documentary titled ‘Strange Journey: The Story of Rocky Horror’, director Linus O’Brien reflects on the show’s success and the influence of key figures such as Lou Adler. Adler’s vision was to bring the show to the US and stage it at the Roxy in Los Angeles, envisioning it as a potential film adaptation from the start.
The casting process for the US production at the Roxy presented some challenges, with key original cast members like Tim Curry needing to be brought over from London. The night of the show’s opening at the Roxy was described as a star-studded event, attracting rock and roll celebrities like John Lennon.
Following the show’s success, Mick Jagger and his team inquired about acquiring the film rights. However, director Jim Sharman advised against the deal, highlighting the importance of maintaining the production’s independence. With Adler’s support, the original cast was retained for the film adaptation.
Adler and producer Michael White negotiated a groundbreaking deal with the studio, guaranteeing a significant sum and ensuring the film’s production. This bold move paved the way for the creation of an underground film rather than a mainstream Hollywood production, as noted by actress Nell Campbell.
Actress Patricia Quinn revealed that several notable musicians, including Mick Jagger, Lou Reed, and David Bowie, expressed interest in portraying the lead role of Dr. Frank-N-Furter. However, the decision was made to stick with the original cast, preserving the essence of the stage production.
The documentary ‘Strange Journey: The Story of Rocky Horror’ premiered at SXSW and is set to debut in the UK, offering viewers a deeper insight into the making of this iconic production. The untold story of how ‘Rocky Horror Picture Show’ defied conventional Hollywood norms is sure to captivate audiences worldwide.
The legacy of ‘Rocky Horror Picture Show’ continues to resonate with fans decades after its release, showcasing the power of creativity, independence, and staying true to artistic vision. As audiences revisit this timeless classic, they are reminded of the enduring impact of a production that dared to be different.