LOS ANGELES, May 11 (UPI) -- Shock rocker Marilyn Manson is reportedly in talks to play Jesus in a dark comedy called "Diamond Dead," MSNBC's "The Scoop" reported Tuesday.
Manson's explicit lyrics and outrageous performances on stage have drawn fire from numerous Christian groups for years.
According to a script posted online, "Diamond Dead" is about a rock band that makes a deal with the devil.
The movie, which features a pot-smoking Jesus, will be directed by George Romero, who also helmed "Night of the Living Dead," with music written by Richard Hartley, composer of "The Rocky Horror Picture Show."
"The idea of Marilyn Manson in the role of Jesus Christ is getting all sorts of reactions," said a message on the "Diamond Dead" Web site. "Someone e-mailed me saying that it's a horrible and anti-Christian idea, but nevertheless they are praying for us."
Manson's representative declined comment.
