Hugh Jackman to star as Greatest Showman on Earth
Story by Jack Foley
HUGH Jackman is to play PT Barnum in contemporary musical The Greatest Showman on Earth.
The film will focus on Barnum’s life and career, revealing his penchant for hoaxing the public as he creates the three-ring circus that made him famous. It will also focus on his infatuation with singer Jenny Lind, which is being scripted for Anne Hathaway.
It is hoped that Jackman and Hathaway can be reunited following their successful performance together at this year’s Oscars, which Jackman hosted.
Variety also reports that the musical will feature contemporary songs and that Twentieth Century Fox is currently in negotiations with British singer-songwriter Mika to contribute music and lyrics.
Jackman’s commitment to the Greatest Showman project forms part of his decision to appear in as many musicals as possible given his passion for song and dance.
He has already won a Tony Award for The Boy From Oz on Broadway and is also involved with an attempt to revive Carousel for the big screen, which is also hoping that Hathaway will come on board to join him.
The X-Men Origins: Wolverine star will shortly be heading to Broadway to star alongside Daniel Craig in new play A Steady Rain.
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