Suri Cruise will not voice German polar bear Knut in an animated film of his life, because she is still learning to speak.
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The 20-month-old daughter of Tom Cruise and Katie Holmes was hot favourite for the role of the bear – who became a national icon in Germany after he was rejected by his mother at Berlin Zoo – but has now been ruled out.
A Cruise family friend has pointed out learning a script may be a little out of Suri’s grasp given that “she doesn’t even speak in full sentences yet”.
Earlier this week, producer Ash R. Shah announced he wanted the famous toddler to voice his four-legged lead character.
Shah, who works for The Animation Picture Company, said: “With his friendly character, Knut serves as an ambassador for the Earth’s problems – climate change and the melting polar ice caps. A movie about Knut would affect people all over the world.
“I see the heart warming relationship between Knut and his caretaker, Thomas Doerflein at the centre of the movie. I want Suri Cruise to be the English voice of Knut.”
Shah has offered the zoo USD5 million for the rights to Knut’s touching story.
Heiner Klos, curator of Berlin Zoo, said: “I can confirm that we received the offer and that we are giving it due consideration. When we have come to a decision, then we will handle the matter discreetly.”
