Russell Crowe flies to 'Man of Steel'
Aussie thesp to reprise role Brando took in '78 for WB's Superman reboot
EXCLUSIVE: Whether paying homage to Marlon Brando's cameo in "Superman" or just wanting a splashy marquee name, Christopher Nolan had all along been seeking an A-list thesp for Jor-El, Superman's biological father, since agreeing to godfather the franchise reboot "Man of Steel" for Warner Bros. and Legendary Pictures.
He's got his man, and it's Russell Crowe.
The mercurial Aussie is in negotiations to take the role in "Man of Steel," which Zack Snyder is on board to direct with Brit thesp Henry Cavill set to play Superman. Warner Bros. had no comment on Crowe's casting.
Amy Adams, Kevin Costner, Diane Lane and Michael Shannon have already joined the cast. David Goyer penned the script and developed the story with Nolan who, as is his way, has kept plot details under wraps.
Charles Roven will produce along with Emma Thomas, Nolan and Deborah Snyder. Thomas Tull and Lloyd Phillips are producing for Legendary Pictures.
With production set to start next month, Jor-El was one of the last roles to cast, though they also are looking for a big name to play Superman's biological mother.
Brando was 54 when he appeared in Richard Donner's 1978 classic; Crowe is 47. Other names that had gone out for the role included Sean Penn and Clive Owen, Crowe was the final choice.