Hugh Jackman officially cast as Blackbeard the pirate in Joe Wright's 'Pan' origin movie about Peter Pan

It seems like only yesterday we were reporting on casting updates concerning the Joe Wright-directed Peter Pan origin movie Pan. That news was about Garrett Hedlund being in talks to play a young Captain Hook, who actually wouldn't be the film's main antagonist. That would be Blackbeard the pirate, who has just been cast actually! After a few months of rumors, it looks like Hugh Jackman is set to battle a young Peter Pan on July 17, 2015.

Deadline reports:

Warner Bros is getting its Peter Pan movie in ship-shape. It has just announced it has set Hugh Jackman to play Blackbeard in Pan, the Joe Wright-directed update of JM Barrie's Peter Pan tale. He joins Garrett Hedlund, who we scooped this week landed the role of Captain Hook after being in the mix with Boardwalk Empire's Jack Huston and Perks Of Being A Wallflower's Ezra Miller.

It's always nice when a casting rumor actually comes true, especially when it involves such an acclaimed actor and a highly anticipated movie. An interesting point to address is that Jackman hasn't really played a villain (unless you count his role in Prisoners), so it will be fun to see how he takes on this role.

According to a report from Variety, "Blackbeard is the leader of evil pirate who have a hold on Neverland. The (as yet uncast) hero of the story is Peter, an orphan who leads a rebellion against Blackbeard's forces."

"Hugh Jackman always delivers indelible performances that resonate with audiences," said Warners' President, Creative Development and Worldwide Production Greg Silverman. "We know he will create a Blackbeard who will be a powerful presence in this original Peter Pan adventure."

Sue Kroll, President, Worldwide Marketing and International Distribution added: "There is a reason that Hugh is known and loved the world over. He is uncompromising in his dedication to every role, and we are all thrilled to be working with him again."