Russell Crowe To Replace Brad Pitt In Play

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Universal Pictures spent the weekend trying to convince Russell Crowe to replace Brad Pitt as the star of "State of Play." The role is about a politico-turned-journalist who spearheads his newspaper's investigation into a killing that leads to a fast-rising pol.

Brad backed out over disagreements about the shooting script and wants the studio to wait until the WGA strike is over for a new script. However, the studio has no time to waste and may even go to the extent to sue Pitt.
The writers strike has not only affected the TV networks but it has postponed production on "Angels & Demons," "Shantaram" and "Pinkville". Universal hopes that "State of Play" doesn’t have the same fate, but if Russell doesn’t jump on board, it might.

The studio is desperate to keep its “Play” cast members Edward Norton, Helen Mirren, Rachel McAdams, Robin Wright Penn and Jason Bateman in place.

If Crowe says no, Universal should look into Johnny Depp and Tom Hanks now that their movies ("Shantaram" and "Angels & Demons," respectively) have been postponed.