Leslie Odom Jr. to Adapt Rolling Stone’s Sammy Davis Jr. Article into Horror Film

Leslie Odom Jr., the acclaimed Tony and Grammy Award-winning performer, is set to adapt the August 2024 Rolling Stone article titled “Dance With the Devil” into a horror film. Odom will not only adapt the article but also take on a starring role in the feature. The article, written by Alex Bhattacharji, delves into the unexpected connection between legendary entertainer Sammy Davis Jr. and Anton LaVey, the founder of the Church of Satan.

This unique project explores how Davis became intertwined with one of America’s most controversial figures. The narrative highlights the complexities of Davis’s life, reflecting on his search for acceptance amid an often alienating environment. The project is a collaboration with Rolling Stone Films, and its synopsis states: “How a TV pilot called Poor Devil begat a friendship between the performer, Sammy Davis Jr., and Anton Szandor LaVey.”

According to Bhattacharji, this adaptation is “a sensitive story about a profoundly alienated Davis and his search for acceptance.” He describes the narrative as a compelling journey that addresses critical issues including racial and sexual identity, politics, religion, and the evolving landscape of pop culture.

Odom’s involvement in this film follows his recent performances in the Pulitzer Prize-winning musical Hamilton. He concluded his run as Aaron Burr on November 26, 2023. Odom, who originated the role both Off-Broadway and on Broadway, has received multiple accolades, including a Tony Award for Best Leading Actor in a Musical and a Grammy Award as a principal soloist on the Original Broadway Cast Recording.

During Odom’s limited engagement, Hamilton experienced a significant surge, with weekly box office grosses increasing by 76%. The musical achieved its highest gross ever in its decade-long run during this period, underscoring Odom’s impact on the production.

In addition to his theatrical work, Odom portrayed soul singer Sam Cooke in the 2020 film adaptation of One Night in Miami…, directed by Regina King, which earned him an Oscar nomination for Best Supporting Actor. He also received a nomination for Best Song for the track “Speak Now.”

Odom’s film and television credits extend to notable titles such as Knives Out sequel, Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery, The Many Saints of Newark, and The Exorcist: Believer. He has also lent his voice to the animated series Central Park, earning an Emmy nomination for his performance.

The adaptation of “Dance With the Devil” marks another milestone in Odom’s diverse career, showcasing his versatility as a performer and storyteller. He is represented by CAA, Untitled Entertainment, and Jackoway Austen Tyerman. As this project develops, audiences can anticipate a thought-provoking exploration of a complex and often misunderstood figure in American entertainment history.