Milo Ventimiglia has been cast in a lead role opposite Jason Statham in "Heat," a remake of the 1986 Burt Reynolds movie of the same name.
Ventimiglia ("Heroes") will play Danny DeMarco, a role portrayed by Neil Barry in the original. Danny is the son of a prominent businessman with ties to a mobster and casino owner named Baby. Given his father's connections, arrogant Danny believes himself to untouchable and travels with two bodyguards to make sure he remains untouchable.
Statham is taking over for Reynolds as a recovering gambling addict who finds work providing protection to his friends.
William Goldman, author of the novel the original film was based on, once again wrote the adapted screenplay for the flick being directed by Simon West ("The Expendables 2"). SJ Pictures, Quad Productions and Current Entertainment are producing.
Ventimiglia will next be seen on the big screen as a frat boy tormenting Adam Sandler in "Grown Ups 2," and co-starring with Nicole Kidman in the winter release of "Grace of Monaco."
Ventimiglia is repped by CAA and Management 360.