James Gandolfini Cast in Marvin Gaye Biopic 'Sexual Healing'

According to the trades James Gandolfini will star in and produce the $15 million Marvin Gaye biopic Sexual Healing.

Jesse L. Martin already is set to play Gaye in the film, which will be written and directed by Lauren Goodman. Goodman wrote the script loosely based on Steven Turner's book "Trouble Man."

The film focuses on the last years of Gaye's life including his parting with Motown to his self-imposed exile in Europe. Gandolfini will play Gaye's manager, Freddy Cousaert, opposite Martin as the legendary soul singer. The film, as previously reported, will focus on the singer's final years — from his self-imposed exile to Europe after struggling with drug problems and label disputes with Motown through to his 1984 death at the hands of his father.

Gandolfini is a multiple Emmy-Award winning actor for his acclaimed starring role in the HBO hit series "The Sopranos."

Principal photography is scheduled to begin April 15th on locations in Massachusetts, Ostend, Belgium, and Los Angeles.

Photo of James Gandolfini by Mark Rupp