“Inglorious Basterds” villain Christoph Waltz has found his next hero to antagonize, as the two-time Oscar winner is in negotiations to star opposite Alexander Skarsgard in “Tarzan,” an individual familiar with the Warner Bros. project has told TheWrap.
David Yates is directing the latest adaptation of Edgar Rice Burroughs’ series of novels about the King of the Jungle.
Jerry Weintraub and Alan Riche are producing, while Mike Richardson will executive produce with Yates. Warner Bros, exec Jesse Ehrman will oversee the project on behalf of the studio.
WB has yet to green light “Tarzan,” though one is expected to come this fall in anticipation of a summer start date. The project was delayed earlier this year after Yates was asked to reduce the budget.
The director is currently meeting with actresses for the role of Tarzan’s love interest Jane, which Jessica Chastain was once eyed for. Emma Stone has been the studio’s first choice for some time, though her casting is considered a long shot. Margot Robbie, who will star opposite Will Smith in WB’s “Focus,” is also a strong contender to play Jane.
Waltz, who won Oscars for his supporting performances in “Inglourious Basterds” and “Django Unchained,” is repped by ICM Partners.
Variety broke the news of Waltz’s casting.
