Freddie Mercury and Queen Show: Hologram?
Queen's former front man Freddie Mercury will appear at a performance beyond the grave as an "optical illusion" and not a hologram, according to a bandmate this week.
Since rapper Tupac appeared as a hologram at Coachella music festival last month, the hologram technology has received worldwide attention. However, Brian May of Queen clarified that the band would be using an optical illusion and not a hologram to display Mercury.
"It's a little unfortunate they did that thing with Tupac as we've been trying to make Freddie appear on the stage for quite awhile," explained Queen's guitarist, according to BBC.
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Fans will be able to relive Mercury's presence on stage next month during "We Will Rock You." The late vocalist died in 1991.
"[The technique] is something we've looked at ourselves but I think probably for a show that runs eight shows a week it's not really quite practical," added May.
The special performance will take place on May 14 at London's Dominion Theatre. May said he hopes the illusion will result in "people come out saying, 'Did we actually see Freddie?'"
On Twitter, Queen fans are expressing mixed reactions to the band's decision to include Mercury via the special technology.
"Ohhh, now they are gonna Do Freddie Mercury by Hologram, what next," wrote Frank.
Carrie posted, "What do ya'll think about this Freddie Mercury hologram nonsense? What are they doing to my boo?"
"Is this ethical," asked Twitter user George. "I'm not sure. #Queen #Hologram"
"I want it all, I want it all, and I want it now," wrote Dkn. "Freddie Mercury Hologram Confirmed"
Bands such as TLC and the Jackson 5 have announced plans to commemorate late members using the digital technology.
Queen has also appeared in headlines recently that reveal a Freddie Mercury biopic is in the works. It has been reported that Stephen Frears will direct a film with Sacha Baron Cohen portraying the late vocalist in the lead role.
