The role of the eccentric Ruby Rhod was written for the “Purple Rain” singer. But Prince was bothered by a crucial detail, as his (strong) replacement Chris Tucker now revealed.
It’s well known that Prince was originally set to star in the cult sci-fi classic The Fifth Element (1997). Director Luc Besson adapted the character of Ruby Rhod directly to the singer’s needs. However, Prince canceled before filming began. Instead, Chris Tucker was engaged – and delighted critics and audiences with his wild performance.
Now, on Whoopie Goldberg’s talk show The View, the actor opened up about why Prince turned down the role at the time. Both got talking about the film because “The Fifth Element” is one of the favorite films of the actress and ex-Oscar presenter.
The 51-year-old said he was at a club in Los Angeles one night when a guy from Prince’s security approached him and said the musician wanted to meet the man “who ended up playing Ruby Rhod”.
Tucker: “Prince said, ‘You played that role in ‘The Fifth Element.’ I was supposed to be playing that character’. I replied: ‘Really?’ He said, ‘Well, I just didn’t like the costumes. I didn’t like her and that’s why it didn’t work.’ I looked at him and said: ‘But your butt is hanging out of your pants!’ He said, ‘But that’s my design, MY design.’”
The decision produced only winners, as Tucker played the role of his life (although the interview revealed he’s also a good Prince impersonator) and Prince became more concerned with his personal style.
Wimpy costumes – or just scheduling conflicts?
By the way: Jean Paul Gaultier, who designed the costumes for “The Fifth Element”, reported in 2016 about an uncomfortable meeting with Prince that the musician used to scold the film’s “soft” robes. Director Luc Besson has previously added that the mundane reason for Prince’s cancellation was simply scheduling conflicts.
Chris Tucker is currently starring in the Nike biopic Air and has also been cast for a rehash of Rush Hour alongside Jackie Chan.