Hugh Jackman is in talks to play the villainous Blackbeard in Warner Bros.’ live-action Peter Pan origin story Pan, from director Joe Wright.
Variety writes that Jackman was approached for the role after Javier Bardem turned down an offer, and the actor was Warner Bros. and Wright’s next choice.
Jackman has not typically been seen in a villainous role, although his recent outing in Warner Bros.’ Prisoners had some edge to it, despite the fact he was the lead character of the piece. While he is currently filming Neill Blomkamp’s Chappie, Jackman had multiple offers on the table for upcoming films, before choosing Wright’s Pan.
Based on a script by Jason Fuchs, the origin story is said to follow Peter Pan’s journey to Neverland and a friendship with one Hook that turns into a rift while the two attempt to bring Blackbeard down. According to Variety, Blackbeard is set to be the chief antagonist in Pan, a role usually saved for Captain Hook in many Peter Pan renditions. Ryan Gosling was reportedly looked at for a role in the film, but declined.
The role of Pan is set to be filled through an open casting call, with the studio targeting younger actors for the role. Variety notes that the role of Tiger Lily is to go to an actress in their mid-20s. There have yet to be any official announcements in regards to casting, although we can expect to get official word on casting soon, as a release date set for the summer of 2015 is set.