Naomi Watts is in final negotiations to join Shailene Woodley in Lionsgate’s “Divergent” sequels, TheWrap has learned.
Watts is nearing a deal to play Evelyn, leader of the Factionless, in Robert Schwentke’s “Insurgent,” as well as both “Allegiant” sequels.
Watts will shoot “Insurgent” through September before she moves on to Gus Van Sant’s “Sea of Trees,” which will star Matthew McConaughey.
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In addition to Woodley, “Insurgent” finds Theo James, Ansel Elgort, Miles Teller and Kate Winslet returning. They’ll be joined by franchise newcomers Octavia Spencer, Jonny Weston and Suki Waterhouse.
Brian Duffield and Akiva Goldsman are credited with adapting Veronica Roth’s YA novel “Insurgent.” The movie, which hits theaters on March 20, 2015, is being produced by Red Wagon’s Doug Wick and Lucy Fisher, as well as Pouya Shahbazian.
Also read: ‘What’s the Deal?’: Jeff Sneider on Sequel ‘Insurgent’ From ‘R.I.P.D.’ Director Robert Schwentke
Coming off disappointing films such as “Diana” and “Adore,” Watts could use a blockbuster movie like “Insurgent,” which is expected to be a box office hit. The Australian actress is no stranger to the high-pressure world of tentpoles, having starred in Peter Jackson’s “King Kong.”
Watts has a trio of intriguing projects on the horizon, some of which are garnering early awards buzz. She stars in Alejandro Gonzalez Inarritu’s “Birdman,” Noah Baumbach’s “While We’re Young” and the Bill Murray movie “St. Vincent.” She’s represented by CAA and Untitled Entertainment.