Russell Brand for Lonny role in Rock of Ages

Russell Brand will play narrator Lonny in 'Rock of Ages'.

The movie's director Adam Shankman - who has already cast Tom Cruise and Mary J. Blige in the forthcoming musical - announced on twitter the British comedian would be taking the pivotal role of the nightclub owner in the film.

He said: "I can officially announce Russell Brand as your Lonny in rock of ages movie. I see a mullet in his future. maybe a Nikki Six?(sic)"

It is not the first time Russell - who is currently in cinemas in a remake of Dudley Moore classic 'Arthur' - has played a rock music star; he previously played a leading role as fictional Aldous Snow in 'Forgetting Sarah Marshall' alongside Kristen Bell.

Julianne Hough and Alec Baldwin are also in line for parts in the 80s musical, while Anne Hathaway, Amy Adams and Gwyneth Paltrow - who recently took starring singing roles in 'Country Strong' and 'Glee' - are also thought to have been approached.