Herbie Hancock Joins Luc Besson’s ‘Valerian and the City of a Thousand Planets’

World-famous musician Herbie Hancock will have a role in Luc Besson‘s upcoming film “Valerian and the City of a Thousand Planets,” the French filmmaker announced Saturday.

“Herbie Hancock is a legend. His music was my only friend at 14,” Besson wrote on Instagram. “I learn so much listening this genius…I’m proud to have him for a role in #Valerian .”

Hancock is a multi-Grammy winner for his jazz albums, winning Album of the Year in 2008 for “River: The Joni Letters.” He also won an Academy Award in 1987 for Best Original Soundtrack for “Round Midnight,” in which he also appeared as Eddie Wayne.

Also Read: John Goodman to Voice Alien in Luc Besson's 'Valerian and the City of a Thousand Planets' (Exclusive)

Hancock has had a number small roles on film and television, including a recent guest spot on “Girl Meets World.” He also played the district attorney in the 2002 film “Hitters.”

“Valerian and the City of a Thousand Planets” is based on the 1967 graphic novel by Pierre Christin and Jean-Claude Mezieres.

Dane DeHaan stars as the titular character, who can travel through space and time. Cara Delevingne will play his red-haired companion. Other stars of the film include John Goodman,  Clive Owen, Ethan Hawke and Rihanna

Besson is writing and directing “Valerian,” which starts shooting next month at a reported budget of $180 million. Virginie Besson-Silla will produce on behalf of EuropaCorp, which is financing, producing and distributing the movie.

Also Read: Dane DeHaan, Cara Delevingne to Join Luc Besson Sci-Fi Saga 'Valerian'

“Valerian and the City of a Thousand Planets” is set to hit theaters on July 21, 2017.

Herbie Hancock is a legend. His music was my only friend at 14… I learn so much listening this genius… I'm proud to have him for a role in #Valerian .

A photo posted by @lucbesson on Dec 12, 2015 at 9:32am PST