Game Of Thrones‘ star Peter Dinklage will be leaving the squabbling drama of the Seven Kingdoms for an altogether different type of performance. Variety reports that the actor has signed on to star opposite funnywoman of the moment, Melissa McCarthy, in her next bespoke movie Michelle Darnell.
Another yarn from McCarthy and her off-screen husband/Tammy director Ben Falcone, the flick will follow her in the lead role as “a titan of industry who is sent to prison after she’s caught for insider trading. When she emerges ready to rebrand herself as America’s latest sweetheart, not everyone she screwed over is so quick to forgive and forget.” Similarly to her self-created vehicle of last year, Tammy, McCarthy and Falcone both penned the script – along with Steve Mallory – with Falcone slated to direct.
After the lacklustre reception for their previous effort, the duo have now enlisted Dinklage to star opposite McCarthy. The specifics of his role have yet to be revealed, however, we know he has been cast in a villainous part. According to the cited sources, Universal were unsure about whether to cast a male or female actor for he position and at one time toyed with Sandra Bullock, Oprah Winfrey or Jon Hamm taking the part.
Now that Dinklage is confirmed, hopefully his presence will inject a dose of deadpan wit to counteract the slapstick shenanigans of its leading lady. The sly cunning he brings to Westeros’ most compelling character, Tyrion Lannister, will be a bright contrast to the typical comedic styles that McCarthy’s movies depend upon.
Falcone and McCarthy will also be tackling primary production duties through their On the Day Productions, along with Will Ferrell and Adam McKay, who will do the same through their Gary Sanchez Productions outfit. Universal’s Senior vice president of production Erik Baiers and creative executive Chloe Yellin will keep an eye on the project for the studio.
Michelle Darnell will arrive in theaters on April 8th, 2016.