Oscar winner Charlize Theron is in talks to join the western comedy A Million Ways to Die in the West, written, directed by and co-starring Seth MacFarlane.
The Hollywood Reporter has learned that Theron is in “final negotiations” to star in the film, which would serve as MacFarlane’s follow-up to the major hit Ted.
The film is a “a Blazing Saddles-style comedy that follows a sheepish farmer who chickens out of a gunfight and sees his girlfriend leave him. When he meets the wife of a notorious outlaw who offers to teach him how to shoot, the farmer at first sees a chance to win back his love but slowly falls for the woman. Complications ensue when the outlaw returns and reclaims his woman.”
Media Rights Capital, who was also behind Ted, will finance A Million Ways to Die in the West, as well. Scott Stuber is producing along with MacFarlane.
Theron is certainly an interesting choice for someone to appear opposite MacFarlane, but is no doubt an immense talent. Having most recently appeared in two much darker roles (Prometheus and Snow White and the Huntsman), we’re certainly excited to see Theron play a lighter, more comical role.