Adam Lambert Reveals Why He Never Played Freddie Mercury in Bohemian Rhapsody—And It’s All About Respect

When the Oscar-winning biopic Bohemian Rhapsody hit theaters in 2018, millions flocked to see the life and legacy of Queen’s legendary frontman, Freddie Mercury, brought to life on the big screen. Rami Malek’s electrifying performance as Mercury earned him an Academy Award, and the film reignited global interest in Queen’s music. But for many fans, one question lingered: Why didn’t Adam Lambert, Queen’s current frontman and a powerhouse vocalist in his own right, step into Freddie’s shoes for the film?

The answer, as Lambert himself revealed, is rooted in humility, self-awareness, and a profound respect for the man he honors on stage every night.

Not an Impersonation—A Tribute

Adam Lambert, who rose to fame as a finalist on American Idol in 2009, has been touring with Queen since 2011. He’s performed Mercury’s classic songs alongside Queen’s original members, guitarist Brian May and drummer Roger Taylor, captivating audiences around the world with his dynamic voice and flamboyant stage presence. Yet, despite his deep connection to Queen’s music and his role in keeping the band’s legacy alive, Lambert never saw himself as the right person to portray Freddie Mercury in a movie.

In an interview with Metro.co.uk, Lambert explained, “I think it’s a very different thing, because I don’t impersonate Freddie and I don’t try to be Freddie. My job is to pay homage to him by singing their songs on tour, and there will only ever be one Freddie Mercury, so I am very much myself, and I am so lucky to get to share the stage with Brian May and Roger Taylor.”

For Lambert, stepping into Mercury’s shoes on stage is about honoring his memory—not imitating him. “To play someone in a movie, you have to become them! And that’s what Rami did. He was absolutely amazing.”

A Cameo, Not the Spotlight

Many fans were surprised that Lambert didn’t pursue the starring role in Bohemian Rhapsody, especially given his close association with Queen. Instead, the part went to Rami Malek, who delivered a performance that was both transformative and deeply moving, earning him critical acclaim and multiple awards.

Lambert, however, did make a subtle appearance in the film—a blink-and-you’ll-miss-it cameo that served as a quiet nod to his ongoing role with Queen. For those with a keen eye, Lambert appears as a truck driver who catches Mercury’s eye at a roadside stop, a brief but meaningful connection between the past and present of Queen’s legacy.

“No One Could Ever Be Freddie”

Adam Lambert’s decision not to play Mercury wasn’t about a lack of confidence or ability. On the contrary, Lambert has proven time and again that he can command the world’s biggest stages and do justice to Queen’s formidable catalogue. Rather, it was a conscious choice rooted in respect for Mercury’s singular artistry.

“I’m not an actor, and more importantly, no one could ever be Freddie,” Lambert said. “There’s only one Freddie Mercury. My job is not to impersonate him, but to celebrate him and keep his spirit alive through the music.”

This distinction is crucial. While Malek’s role required him to study and embody Mercury’s mannerisms, voice, and persona, Lambert’s role as Queen’s frontman is about channeling the energy and emotion of the songs, while bringing his own identity and style to the performances.

The Evolution of Adam Lambert

While Lambert’s connection to Queen is a defining part of his career, he’s also continued to evolve as an artist in his own right. After a five-year hiatus from releasing solo albums, Lambert returned with new music, putting the finishing touches on his fourth studio album, Velvet.

At a playback event in London, Lambert revealed that his new songs were less influenced by rock and more by funk and soul. But, as he clarified, Queen’s influence is still present—just not in a literal way.

“I was actually very influenced by Queen—just not in a literal sense,” he shared. “Their music crosses all genres; they never felt like they had to stick to one genre. That gave me a lot of freedom in creating this music, and that’s why it’s a different vibe to my past music. I had a lot more freedom creating it.”

Lambert’s personal life has also blossomed in recent years. Happily in a relationship with model Javi Costa Polo, Lambert revealed that his new romance inspired the lead single from Velvet, “New Eyes.” “It’s the reason I chose ‘New Eyes’ to come first,” he explained. “The music business is different now, you don’t need to come with your biggest song first—now it’s about building. So I chose the song that most represented where I was at, at that moment in time.”

Carrying the Torch

As Queen + Adam Lambert continue to tour, bringing Queen’s music to new generations of fans, Lambert remains clear about his role. He is not Mercury’s replacement, nor is he trying to fill an impossible void. Instead, he sees himself as a torchbearer, carrying the spirit of Queen forward while honoring the indelible mark Freddie left on music and culture.

“It’s such a privilege to sing these songs and to share the stage with Brian and Roger,” Lambert said. “Every night, I feel the presence of Freddie and the love the fans have for him. I just try to give my all and celebrate what he created.”

A Legacy of Authenticity

Rami Malek’s portrayal of Mercury in Bohemian Rhapsody was a triumph of acting, capturing the complexity and brilliance of one of rock’s greatest icons. Adam Lambert’s ongoing performances with Queen are a triumph of authenticity—an artist refusing to imitate, choosing instead to honor and interpret.

In a world quick to demand imitation and replication, Lambert’s approach is a lesson in humility and integrity. By refusing to play Mercury on screen, he has, in his own way, paid the greatest tribute of all: keeping Freddie’s memory alive, not through impersonation, but through heartfelt performance and boundless respect.

As Queen’s music continues to inspire, and as Lambert’s own star shines ever brighter, fans can be grateful for a legacy built not just on talent, but on love, honesty, and the courage to be oneself. And as the band resumes its North American tour, the spirit of Freddie Mercury will be there, soaring through every note—thanks, in no small part, to Adam Lambert’s unwavering devotion.