I was reading Corona Coming Attractions yesterday, when I came across the note that the project was progressing slowly because Frank Darabont couldn't find a man to play John Coffey, the 6foot 6inches man on Death Row in THE GREEN MILE.

Well, this peaked my interest because I found the guy who should be playing this pivotal role. This has to be played by someone how is imposing yet simple in the face. Someone that can be wonderfully simple. Someone who is troubled by the world around him, someone who wouldn't hurt a dying mouse. In the old days this was the sort of part that would've gone to Brock Peters.

Well the actor Darabont is looking for is appearing on screens now. His name is Michael Duncan, and he plays a bouncer in BULWORTH, but the reason I'm suggesting him is for his performance as Jayotis "BEAR" Kurleen in ARMAGEDDON. Michael is a giant of a man, but has a peace about him. Even in the constraints of his space suit, he looked happy while everyone else looked like they'd just as soon kill a wookie. He is PERFECT for the part, no need to look further, here's your dude.

He has a soothing voice, calming eyes and a warm spirit. He was born for the part. The second I laid eyes on him, while I was on set, I knew he should play John Coffey. Don't let me tell y'all folks in charge, take a gander at him, he'll prove it to ya...

Harry Knowles