Versace's Accused Killer Gets Musical

The man linked to the murder of fashion designer Gianni Versace will be the subject of a controversial musical in California.

The production will focus on the 1997 killing spree of ANDREW CUNANAN, the reputed gay escort and drug user who was linked to five murders, including the shock slaying of Versace.

In development at the LA JOLLA PLAYHOUSE, the musical has already drawn protests from Cunanan's family and some members of the gay community in Florida.

BILL PETERS of the GAY AND LESBIAN COMMUNITY CENTER in Fort Lauderdale, says, "Cunanan was sick - and do you celebrate that?"

La Jolla Playhouse's artistic director, SHIRLEY FISHMAN, explains the piece will be loosely based on the life of Cunanan - who committed suicide just days after Versace's murder - and "examine issues in our contemporary society".