Earlier this month, it was revealed that Lionsgate and WWE Studios were teaming up for a reboot of Leprechaun. We now know who will be playing the title character. Replacing Warwick Davis is WWE star Dylan Postl, who is better known as Hornswoggle.
He recently took to his Twitter page to announce the casting, title, and release month: "The #swogglesecret that I've been hinting at all week is that in March 2013 I will be starring in Leprechaun:Origins by WWE Studios!!!"
The target release month is still quite a bit away, but we'll keep an eye out for additional casting announcements over the coming months. At this time, a director and additional actors have not been announced. While this was referred to as Leprechaun: Origins in the Tweet, we wouldn't be surprised to see "origins" dropped from the title if they are planning this film as a reboot and not a prequel.
The original film was released in 1993 and spawned multiple direct to video sequels including Leprechaun in the Hood and Leprechaun 4: In Space. WWE Studios is looking to relaunch their film division and this will be the first of multiple projects with Lionsgate.
**Updated with official word from WWE Studios:
"As first reported by Variety, WWE Studios is joining forces with Lionsgate for a two-film slate, the first of which will be a reboot of the hit “Leprechaun” franchise. “Leprechaun: Origins” will star WWE’s own mischievous Superstar Hornswoggle making his feature film debut, proving the old adage that there truly are no small parts, only small actors. A writer or director has yet to be announced.
The comedic horror series got its start in 1993, and starred Warwick Davis in the titular role. It also launched the career of “Friends” megastar Jennifer Aniston in her first major part. Five sequels followed, creating a cult favorite series. The formidable tag team of Lionsgate and WWE Studios - the same pairing responsible for "See No Evil" starring Kane and "Stone Cold" Steve Austin's "The Condemned" - will share production costs and the development of marketing strategies for the relaunched franchise. Lionsgate will lead the distribution efforts.
Hornswoggle, a WWE fixture since 2006, will grace the silver screen for the first time. The master of the Tadpole Splash and former (and final) WWE Cruiserweight Champion, ‘Swoggle has also been the official mascot of D-Generation X. This Sunday, he will be the flag-bearer for Team Teddy in the huge WrestleMania battle with Team Johnny for General Managerial control of both Raw and SmackDown
The newly announced star played a game of "Hide and Tweet" at WrestleMania Axxess on Thursday, encouraging members of the WWE Universe to locate the diminuative grappler and discover the so-called #swogglesecret, which turned out to be his involvement with Leprechaun: Origins."
*Thanks to Kyle for the heads up
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