In one of the most interesting bits of casting news to come along in weeks comes word that Tom Hiddleston will play Country singer Hank Williams in a film based on Williams’ life. Yes, you read that right…Tom Hiddleston will play Hank Williams in the feature film titled I Saw the Light.
Hiddleston’s handled playing the villain who steals scene after scene in comic book movies, he’s played a sexy vampire opposite Tilda Swinton, and tackled various and sundry dramatic roles, but never before has he been asked to show off his ability to sing Country songs. However, that’s exactly what he’ll be doing in this Hank Williams biopic, as Bron Studios and RatPac Entertainment confirmed Hiddleston will be doing his own singing.
And because the production companies were able to secure rights to the Hank Williams catalog, Hiddleston will be singing some of Williams’ actual hits (maybe even “I’m So Lonesome I Could Cry,” “Hey Good Lookin’” and “Your Cheatin’ Heart”).
The film is based on the Hank Williams biography by Colin Escott. Marc Abraham (Flash of Genius) wrote the screenplay, is on board as director and will produce with Aaron L. Gilbert, Brett Ratner, and G. Marq Roswell.
Filming is expected to begin in October 2014 in Louisiana.
Hiddleston’s credits include The Avengers, Thor, Thor: The Dark World, War Horse, Midnight in Paris, and Only Lovers Left Alive. He recently finished up Crimson Peak for Guillermo del Toro.
(Updated with photo of Tom Hiddleston as Hank Williams)
