KJ Apa to portray Bradley Nowell in upcoming Sublime biopic

KJ Apa, known for his role as Archie Andrews in the CW series Riverdale, has been cast to portray Bradley Nowell, the late frontman of the band Sublime, in an upcoming biopic directed by Justin Chon. Nowell, who passed away in 1996 at the age of 28 due to a heroin overdose, was a pivotal figure in the band that blended ska, punk, and reggae, achieving fame in the mid-1990s. The film will feature executive producers including Sublime members Bud Gaugh and Eric Wilson, as well as Nowell's widow, Troy Dendekker, and his son, Jakob Nowell, who is also the new singer for Sublime. KJ Apa's commitment to the role is evident, as he reportedly pursued it for nearly two years, undergoing multiple auditions and meetings. Producers recognized his dedication and talent, believing he was the ideal choice to embody Nowell's character. Fans have expressed their excitement and curiosity about Apa's ability to capture the essence of Nowell, particularly regarding his singing skills and the portrayal of the singer's life. The film is expected to explore the band's journey to fame, including the challenges and struggles faced by Nowell, such as his battle with addiction. While some fans speculate about the film's narrative structure, there is a general consensus that it will follow a familiar biopic formula, detailing the rise and fall of a musical icon. As the project develops, it raises questions about how the filmmakers will balance the band's legacy with the personal story of Nowell, potentially shedding light on lesser-known aspects of his life and the impact of his music on fans and culture. The anticipation surrounding the biopic suggests it could be a significant moment in KJ Apa's career following the conclusion of Riverdale.