Hip-hop star LL Cool J is in talks to play the lead role in a stage revival of Tennessee Williams 1950s classic movie Cat On A Hot Tin Roof. The rapper hopes to land the role as Brick, an alcoholic ex-American football player whose father is dying of cancer, played by Paul Newman in the original film.

The star, real name James Todd Smith, has proved his acting talent in movie Deep Blue Sea and sitcom In The House.

Cat On A Hot Tin Roof will be produced by Stephen Byrd and directed by Debbie Allen.

Other stars in talks to appear in the show include Debbie Allen's sister, Phylicia Rashad, Anika Noni Rose and Louise Goddett Jr., according to PageSix.

(This news article provided by World Entertainment News Network)