Morgan Freeman denies recording for GOP ad campaign

WASHINGTON - Actor Morgan Freeman has said that he never narrated a campaign ad for B.J. Lawson, as claimed by a North Carolina Republican candidate and his campaign manager.

B.J. Lawson touted the narration by a voice sounding like Freeman’s, and his campaign manager told Byron Tau today that Freeman had narrated the ad.

But Freeman spokesman Stan Rosenfeld sent over a sharp denial from the actor.

“These people are lying. I have never recorded any campaign ads for B.J. Lawson and I do not support his candidacy. And, no one who represents me ever has ever authorized the use of my name, voice or any other likeness in support of Mr. Lawson or his candidacy,” the Politico quoted Freeman as saying.

The campaign of incumbent David Price, whom Lawson is challenge to represent the district around Chapel Hill, jumped on Freeman’s statement.

“Lawson has lied to his supporters and to the community he wants to represent,” Price said in a statement calling on Lawson to pull down the ads.

“This is an unfortunate and desperate attempt to fool voters in the last hours of a campaign. By using Mr. Freeman’s good name, BJ Lawson has ruined his own, and he should be ashamed. Now the voters will decide whom they trust,” Price added.

The B.J. Lawson for Congress campaign replied to the unfolding controversy over the use of a likeness of Morgan Freeman in a campaign ad.

“We have a contract saying it’s Morgan Freeman,” Lawson campaign manager Martin Avila said.

Avila said that the campaign was approached by a campaign supporter named Ben Mathis of MEI Political and Mathis Entertainment earlier this summer who offered to cut an ad with Morgan Freeman.

The campaign declined the offer at the time, but was re-approached several days ago and agreed. They cut the ad with Mathis for 4,500 dollar.

Avila said that Mathis had an impressive portfolio of work, and other political spots featuring Hollywood celebrities.

“We’re pulling our ads, obviously, if Morgan Freeman says its not him,” said Avila, adding “This is obviously not what we want to talk about” with one day looming until the general election. (ANI)