Actor Russell Crowe is to replace Brad Pitt in the Hollywood remake of BBC political thriller State of Play, according to reports.
Pitt pulled out of the project last month, when it was claimed that he had concerns about the script.
Oscar-winner Crowe, 43, is to star as an investigative journalist alongside Dame Helen Mirren and Ed Norton, US trade publication Variety said.
It is anticipated production will begin before the end of the year.
The film will be directed by Kevin Macdonald, who also oversaw The Last King of Scotland.
State of Play is about a team of journalists investigating the mysterious death of a political researcher.
The original BBC TV series earned a best-actor Bafta for Bill Nighy - who played newspaper editor Cameron Foster - plus further honours for editing and sound.
Crowe will play Cal McCaffrey, portrayed by John Simm in the TV version.
Variety reported it was unclear whether Universal would take legal action against Pitt over his departure from the production.
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