Space Jam is finally getting a sequel after 20 years, and even though no one can replace Michael Jordan in the original, LeBron James is a close second.
The Cleveland Cavaliers forward will be starring in the sports comedy reboot, Variety reports. It’s a fitting choice for the film considering James has been compared to Jordan since 2003 when he entered the NBA after graduating high school.
People began to speculate that there may be a sequel to the 1996 live-action/animated movie when James and his production company, SpringHill Entertainment, signed a deal with Warner Bros. last July. At the time he said that the partnership “will allow [him] to do some things [he’s] always dreamed of.”
Though not an actor, this won’t be James’ first acting gig. He made his debut in Trainwreck last summer and received rave reviews for his performance, which was particularly impressive considering he appeared alongside comedy veterans Amy Schumer and Bill Hader.
Space Jam 2 is being written by Andrew Dodge and Justin Lin, who will likely direct the movie as well. Lin has been credited with reviving the Fast and Furious franchise, having directed the fourth, fifth, and sixth movies. He also directed Star Trek Beyond, which is scheduled to come out this summer.