Hugh Jackman just confirmed he’s taking on one of fiction’s most legendary characters in a major new project. The actor revealed details about his role in an upcoming Ridley Scott reimagining during a recent interview.
Hugh Jackman set to play Long John Silver in Treasure Island
Hugh Jackman has confirmed he will star as Long John Silver in Ridley Scott’s upcoming reimagining of Treasure Island. The Wolverine actor verified the casting in a new interview with DiscussingFilm while promoting his latest film, The Death of Robin Hood. Jack Thorne, the writer behind Adolescence, penned the script for the project.
Notably, Jackman revealed that the script and Scott’s involvement drew him to the role rather than any affinity for classic literary characters. “I’ve never read Treasure Island. I’ve never seen Treasure Island,” Jackman stated. “So, I’ve heard of Long John Silver, but I had no idea.” He further described the project as “a slight reimagining” of the original story.
Additionally, the actor expressed strong enthusiasm for the material and his collaboration with Scott. “It was sent to me by Ridley Scott, and I was like, ‘Well, I’m really interested in that,'” Jackman said. He also praised the screenplay directly. “Jack Thorne wrote this amazing script. So, fingers crossed we get it up and we get going. I’m in.”
Meanwhile, Scott will direct and produce alongside Michael Pruss, with Thorne serving as executive producer. The film draws inspiration from Robert Louis Stevenson’s 1881 adventure novel. However, reports indicate the project is currently being shopped to different studios for pickup.
Furthermore, Long John Silver remains one of literature’s most iconic villains and helped define the modern image of pirates. Previous actors in the role include Wallace Beery, Robert Newton, Charlton Heston, and Tim Curry. Luke Arnold also portrayed a younger version of the character in the acclaimed prequel series Black Sails.
Ultimately, Jackman acknowledged the project still needs a studio greenlight. “Let’s see if someone will make it,” he added. Treasure Island does not yet have a confirmed release date.
