Elijah Kelley to Play Seaweed in Hairspray Film

Elijah Kelley has been tapped to play Seaweed J. Stubbs in the upcoming film adaptation of the musical Hairspray, according to The Baltimore Sun. He joins previously reported stars Nicole Blonsky, John Travolta, Queen Latifah, Amanda Bynes and Zac Efron in the film.

The 19-year-old actor was recently seen in the movie Take the Lead. His other feature film credits include 28 Days and Heavens Fall. He has made appearances on the television shows The Shield, Everybody Hates Chris and Numb3rs.

The Hairspray film, directed by Adam Shankman, is expected to begin production in Baltimore and Toronto in September. Release is set for summer 2007.