Saddam Lookalike Prospers in California
Being that this country is on the verge of war, this may not be the safest way to make a few bucks....
SACRAMENTO, California (Reuters) - As the United States prepares to go to war with Iraq, a man who looks just like Saddam Hussein proudly wanders the halls of California's state capitol.
Jaded state legislators don't even bat an eye when he appears to drop by their offices.
They know it is actually Jerry Haleva, a savvy political insider with his own lobbying firm, Sergeant Major Communications, and a thriving sideline as Hollywood's favorite double for Saddam Hussein.
If you have seen Saddam in a movie lately, you have may have seen Haleva. His screen credits include the spoofs "Hot Shots" and "Hot Shots Deux," the Coen Brothers' "The Big Lebowski," and the 2002 HBO mockumentary "Live from Baghdad."
And no, it's not just the makeup. Haleva really does bear a striking resemblance to the Iraqi leader, who is reputed to employ a number of doubles for security reasons.
"Especially when I'm in costume," Haleva said, pointing to a headshot from "Live from Baghdad." "You know all those posters and billboards in the movie? That was me as Saddam."
It could be worse, I suppose. Haleva could be a striking resemblance to Brian David Mitchell....
