James Corden - James Corden to star in Hollywood musical

James Corden to star in Hollywood musical

James Corden is set to star in 'Into the Woods'.

The British actor - who recently won a Tony Award for his work in Broadway show 'One Man, Two Guvnors' - is in line to portray the Baker in Rob Marshall's forthcoming adaptation of the fairytale-based stage musical.

A source told The Sun newspaper: ''James' stock has gone up massively since he won the Tony award.

''US film chiefs consider him one of the rising stars in Hollywood and he's getting plenty of interest.

''His musical background puts him in pole position to land the role.''

'Mamma Mia!' actress Meryl Streep is also in talks for the film, with bosses hoping to cast her as the Witch.

According to Broadway World, a screenplay reading recently took place in which various potential cast members took part.

These included 'Up in the Air' actress Anna Kendrick as Cinderella and The West Wing's Allison Janney as Jack's Mother.

Also taking part were Nina Arianda as The Baker's Wife, Christine Baranski as the Stepmother, Tammy Blanchard as Florinda, Victoria Clark as Cinderella's Mother/Giant, David Garrison as the Narrator, Ivan Hernandez as the Wolf, and Megan Hilty as Lucinda.

Cheyenne Jackson was Rapunzel's Prince, with Michael McGrath as the Steward/Baker's Father, Laura Osnes as Rapunzel, Taylor Trensch as Jack, Casey Whyland as Little Red Riding Hood and Patrick Wilson as Cinderella's Prince.

James was present at the reading, but Meryl wasn't, with Donna Murphy taking part as the Witch.

'Into the Woods' weaves together various Grimm Brothers fairytales into a story about a family trying to break a curse laid upon them.