Martin (Rent) will star as Gaye, with Merkerson (Come Back Little Sheba) in discussions to portray his mother. Brendan Gleeson has been cast as British music producer Freddy Cousaert.
Julien Temple is directing the film that will center on Gaye's attempts to regain control of his career and put his addictions to rest in the early 1980's.
Musician Lenny Kravitz was previously announced to star as Gaye.
Gaye is also portrayed in the new Broadway musical Motown, which traces the life of music pioneer Berry Gordy. Bryan Terrell Clark plays Gaye in the musical.
