Johnny Depp

Johnny Depp

Johnny Depp is Paddy Power's 4/1 favourite to play King of Pop Michael Jackson in a movie about his life.

The bookie opened betting on the back of news that movie maker Ivan Reitman, who directed ‘Ghostbusters’ and ‘Up In The Air’ producer Tom Pollock are currently in discussions about creating a Hollywood blockbuster detailing the tragic singers life.

Other big names who could step into the legendary singers’ shoes include High School Musical star Zac Efron at 9/2, Usher at 6/1, Will Smith at 8/1 and Justin Timberlake at 12/1.

And Paddy Power are also taking bets on what colour the chosen actor will be. In the latter stages of his life Jackson appeared more white than black which could persuade movie bosses to opt for a Caucasian man to play Michael.

The odds on a white actor being cast in the role are 8/11 while it’s Even money that a black actor will play the part.

Sharon McHugh, spokesperson for Paddy Power said: "It’s going to be one mammoth task trying to get someone good enough at acting and dancing to fill Michael Jackson’s moon-walking shoes but when it comes to the race we’re betting it don’t matter if he’s black or white!"

Who will play Michael Jackson in a biopic?

4/1  Johnny Depp
9/2  Zac Efron
6/1  Usher
6/1  Jaden Smith
8/1  Will Smith
8/1  Jamie Foxx
10/1  Andre 3000
12/1  Justin Timberlake
12/1  Randy Jackson
16/1  Crispin Glover
16/1  Chris Brown
20/1  Chris Tucker
20/1  Jared Leto
20/1  Adrian Grenier
25/1  Derek Hough
40/1  Justin Bieber
40/1  Denzel Washington
40/1  Will.I.Am
40/1  Eddie Murphy
50/1  Kenny Wormald
50/1  Pharell Williams
80/1  Kevin Bacon
100/1  Channing Tatum
100/1  Keanu Reeves

Will the chosen actor be black or white?

8/11 White
Evs Black