Richard Pryor Biopic Movie Update, Release Date Rumors, Trailer Spoilers: Mike Epps Cast As Iconic Comedian After Nick Cannon Speculation

Despite the fact that Nick Cannon changed his appearance to look like comedy legend Richard Pryor when a biopic movie project was announced, it looks like director Lee Daniels decided on another actor for the role. Mike Epps has officially been cast as Pryor thanks to an amazing screen test that impressed Oprah Winfrey. Epps had been linked to previous Pryor projects in the past, so it's fitting for him to get the official role in the project most likely to be produced.

Deadline reported that Anne Hathaway and Kate Hudson were frontrunners for the role of Pryor's widow, Jennifer. Also, Eddie Murphy and Michael B. Jordan are reportedly involved in the movie.

You can check out Twitter updates from Lee Daniels and Oprah Winfrey right here, confirming Epps' casting:

Get ready y'all- #MikeEpps as #RichardPryor pic.twitter.com/0sothu7yVB

— lee daniels (@leedanielsent) August 24, 2014

@leedanielsent , @therealmikeepps , and me just finished a great 1st read session. #RichardPryorMovie https://t.co/WHw6HQkaxr — Oprah Winfrey (@Oprah) August 24, 2014

As we mentioned before, there have been a number of Pryor films in the works, but it looks like this is the one that will get made with a great star and director.

What do you think about this casting news? Is Epps the best choice to play Richard Pryor? Were you hoping for Nick Cannon to get the role? Let us know in the comments section below!

(via Slash Film)