Michael Bivins Says He Initially Wanted Larenz Tate to Play Him in 2017 New Edition Miniseries
In 2017, “Empire” star Bryshere Y. Gray assumed the role of singer and songwriter Michael Lamont Bivins in the BET miniseries "The New Edition Story." However, Gray wasn't the initial choice for the part.
In an interview with Page Six, the New Edition and Bel Biv Devo founder revealed that he initially hoped for "Love Jones" star Larenz Tate or "Red Tails" actor Tristan Wilds to portray him, but both were unavailable.
Bivins credited his wife, Teasha Bivins, with Gray's casting, stating, “My wife thought he was great, and it ended up working out in the end,” the “Candy Girl” singer said of the actor’s casting.
Still, Bivins admitted, “I did not see it then, but I see it now.” He continued, “I just coached them and had conversations with him, and he ended up being the perfect person for the job. He ended up doing a hell of a job. So, I cannot take credit for him. All I did was drill him.”
"The New Edition Story" featured a talented cast, including Woody McClain, who portrayed Bobby Brown; Algee Smith as Ralph Tresvant; Elijah Kelley as Ricky Bell; Keith Powers as Ronnie DeVoe, and Luke James as the soulful Johnny Gill.
