There was a time when it looked as though there was a chance Lee Pace was going to play the main hero, Star-Lord, in James Gunn's upcoming sci-fi action film Guardians of the Galaxy. But while that role eventually went to Parks and Recreation star Chris Pratt, apparently Gunn and Marvel Studios have kept Pace in mind for another major role: the villain.
The Wrap is reporting that the lanky, 6'3" star is now in "final negotiations" to play the antagonist in the 2014 space adventure. Right now his potential character's identity is being kept under wraps, but should he sign on he will join not only Pratt, but Dave Bautista (who is playing Drax The Destroyer), Zoe Saldana (as Gamora), and Michael Rooker (who will be Yondu Udonta). It was also reported just yesterday that Ophelia Lovibond is aboard to play the assistant to the near immortal known as The Collector, though fans are still waiting to hear casting for the remaining members of the Guardians team, which includes Rocket Raccoon and Groot. Production on the film is scheduled to begin this summer with Marvel dating the theatrical release for August 1, 2014.
While Guardians of the Galaxy would be his first comic book movie, Pace is no stranger to major Hollywood franchises, having assumed the role of Garrett in The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn Part II and playing Thranduil the Elvenking in Peter Jackson's The Hobbit trilogy (the second part of which will be out in December).
Are you excited about Lee Pace finding a role in Guardians after all? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.
