June 23, 2011 16:41

Jamie Foxx to play 'Django' for Quentin Tarantino

Oscar-winner looks set to grab the role ahead of Will Smith

Jamie Foxx looks set to take the lead role in Quentin Tarantino's Western, Django Unchained. For some time Will Smith was said to be the number one choice to play the role of Django, the freed slave who teams up with a bounty hunter to take on an evil slave-owner.

No official word has yet been given as to the change in choice, but speculation from some quarters is the role, and the film itself, would be deemed too violent for Smith's legions of fans.

While Foxx has yet to be officially confirmed as the lead, Variety report that, after well over a month of casting speculation, with names ranging from Idris Elba to Chris Tucker considered, Foxx is the closest to signing yet.

Earlier this month Leonardo DiCaprio signed on to play the role of the evil plantation owner who holds captive Django's wife.

The role of the Django's wife has yet to be cast.

Jamie Foxx won the Academy Award for Best Actor in 2005 for his portrayal of Ray Charles in the biopic, Ray.

Foxx will next be seen in revenge comedy, Horrible Bosses, playing the role of 'Motherfucker Jones'.

Django Unchained will be Tarantino's 8th feature film and is due for UK release on 25th December 2012.