John Boyega will headline ‘The Book of Eli’ prequel series, taking the reins from superstar Denzel Washington.
According to Deadline, the star will play the titular character in the upcoming TV series.
The show will be set 30 years before the events of the original film–which has Eli fighting across the war-ravaged United States, carrying sacred text that will redeem the human race.
In the original flick, Washington did his own stunts in the fight sequences.
“There’s something to be said about grown-man strength. You forget they’re wily veterans. They have too many moves, too much wisdom, and Denzel is one of the wisest ones I’ve ever come across.” The Hughes Brothers
John Boyega Is Ready For His Next Starring Role
Warner Bros. won’t be involved in the project, even though the original film earned $157.1 million from an $80 million budget.
Gary Whitta will be show’s creator, executive producer, and writer, while Alcon Entertainment will produce.
John Boyega was a major part of the Star Wars sequels before speaking out against Disney’s lack of diversity.
The actor will also star in sci-fi romance The Freshening from Cathy Yan and produced by Ali Wong.