Lenny Kravitz to play Marvin Gaye in biopic

Lenny Kravitz has signed on for his first leading film role, playing singer Marvin Gaye in a biopic that will be shot next year.

The rocker's publicist Carleen Donovan confirmed the news Tuesday. Kravitz has played supporting roles in the past, including a small part in "The Hunger Games."

Rolling Stone first reported details about the 48-year-old performer's part in the film, directed by Julien Temple.

The magazine says the "Are You Gonna Go My Way" singer will portray Gaye during the 1980s when he was fighting his addictions and attempting to restart his career. Gaye died in 1984 after being shot by his father.

Kravitz's most recent studio album, "Black and White America," came out in 2011. He performed during halftime of the Jets-Patriots Thanksgiving night game last week.