'Transporter 4' casts former 'Game of Thrones' actor Ed Skrein to replace Jason Statham in prequel/reboot movie

Just last week, reports were coming in about continuing the Transporter franchise that launched Jason Statham into a huge career. Unfortunately Statham won't be returning for these new films, but that's because they will be somewhat of a prequel storyline or a reboot (whichever term you prefer). This week, producers have found Statham's replacement in the former Daario Naharis from Game of Thrones actor Ed Skrein.

Skrein will be a familiar face to HBO viewers for his portrayal of Naharis, the charismatic sellsword trying to woo Daenerys Targaryen in season three of Game of Thrones. Unfortunately the role was recently recast, leaving Skrein looking for another big role. Luckily for him, Transporter 4 was just announced.

The Hollywood Reporter broke this story last week, reporting:

Luc Besson's EuropaCorp is going ahead with a reboot of its hit Transporter franchise, greenlighting the first -- Transporter 4 -- and laying plans for two follow-ups. Transporter 4 will be co-produced with Mark Gao's Shanghai-based Fundamental Films. If it performs as expected, Transporter 5 and Transporter 6 will be set up as official Chinese co-productions to get easier access to China's booming box office.

So the search was out for Statham's replacement. Producers looked for someone that could look like a young Statham, but also bring his own personality to the origin role.

"We searched everywhere to find a fresh face who had the potential to become an action movie star and we've found the right match with Ed Skrein, who's not only a great actor but also has enough charisma and physical stamina to play Frank Martin with brio," producers revealed to Variety.

What do you think of this casting news?