"The Big Bang Theory" lead Jim Parsons is in talks to play as BuzzFeed editor in Warner Bros. movie "Brother Orange." Warner Bros. is working with BuzzFeed Motion Pictures to tell the true story of the internet phenomenon.
According to The Hollywood Reporter, Parsons will play BuzzFeed editor Matt Stopera in "Brother Orange." His character had his iPhone stolen at a New York bar in 2014. Unbeknownst to him, the cellphone made its way to China and, a year later, random pictures began appearing on his photo stream, including a number of pictures of a serious-looking man in front of an orange tree.
Stopera tracks down the mysterious man who had selfies taken with orange trees and began appearing mysteriously on his iCloud feed, all the way to China, Variety reported. The story of the search for "Brother Orange" went viral, turning Stopera and "Brother Orange" into overnight celebrities who struck an accidental friendship.
Stopera did a series of stories about the incident in "Brother Orange." The story exploded on social platform Weibo receiving more than 20 million views within 24 hours and was eventually shared internationally more than 100 million times.
The online community dubbed the man Li Hongjun or "Brother Orange" and helped Stopera track him down. Stopera eventually sought out Hongjun in China, and the two appeared on Ellen back in the U.S, showing an unlikely, accidental friendship that transcends cultural divides.
"Brother Orange" is produced by Parsons, Michael Shamberg, head of development Matthew Henick at BuzzFeed Motion Pictures, and Todd Spiewak through That's Wonderful Productions banner. It is executive produced by Stopera alongside "Broad City" co-creator Ilana Glazer, Ellen DeGeneres, and Jeff Kleeman. Eric Norsoph will be overseeing for That's Wonderful.
Parsons is now in his Season 10 on CBS' "Big Bang Theory," playing a lovable geek Sheldon that has netted him four Emmy wins. He is also an executive producer on the hit CBS show. It was also recently announced that the network is developing a prequel spinoff series based on his character's high school years.
Parsons will appear next in the upcoming Fox 2000 race drama "Hidden Figures," bows on Christmas Day, with Octavia Spencer and Kevin Costner. He is represented by CAA and Principal Entertainment LA, and Gang Tyre.
Watch the video of "Brother Orange" meets sister Ellen:
