“Girls” star Adam Driver is nearing a deal to play the villain in “Star Wars: Episode VII,” TheWrap has learned.
Disney, LucasFilm and Driver’s reps did not immediately respond to requests for comment.
Driver has been in the “Star Wars” mix for sometime, but scheduling issues provided an obstacle. It looks as though that hurdle has been overcome.
Warner Bros. had been seeking Driver to star in the Green Hat Films production “Arms and the Dudes,” but the actor was reluctant to commit knowing that he stood a strong chance for a lead role in “Star Wars.” Driver was forced to turn down a supporting role in “Batman vs. Superman” for the same reason.
Also read: J.J. Abrams Says ‘Star Wars Episode VII’ Script Done, Confirms Jesse Plemons Talks
It remains unclear what Driver’s role will be, though it is understood that the character will be villainous in nature.
Abrams is directing from a script he co-wrote with Lawrence Kasdan. Abrams is also producing with his Bad Robot partner Bryan Burk and LucasFilm’s Kathleen Kennedy.
The big-budget Disney tentpole will begin shooting this spring at London’s Pinewood Studios. Disney will release the movie on Dec. 18, 2015.
Driver is repped by the Gersh Agency.
More to come…