Although production has already kicked off on location in Boston, there is still major casting underway for Black Mass, the next film from Scott Cooper (Out of the Furnace, Crazy Heart). Led by Johnny Depp as the notorious (and recently convicted) Boston mobster Whitey Bulger, the ensemble also includes Joel Edgerton, Dakota Johnson, Juno Temple and Jesse Plemons. Today now brings news of a casting shake-up and perhaps an unexpected addition.
First up, Guy Pearce was expected to play the gangster’s law-friendly brother Billy Bulger, but Boston Globe reports that he had to drop out for unknown reasons and a replacement has already been brought in. Benedict Cumberbatch, who’ll be seen this fall in The Imitation Game, has stepped into the role, making for no complaints here.
As for the next addition, THR reports that Parks & Recreation star Adam Scott will jump back into drama, playing a FBI agent named Robert Fitzpatrick. While the actor is known for his comedic roles, I urge one to check out The Vicious Kind or even The Aviator to see his other side. As for Black Mass, it will be released next October, but one can check out a documentary on the lead subject this summer.
What do you think of the new additions?