Ricky to play human lead in movie sequel

Ricky Gervais has confirmed he will be taking the lead role in the new Muppets movie.

He tweeted this afternoon: ‘I have just signed up to play the lead in the next Muppet Movie. I have the biggest trailer but Kermit will spend some time in my sink.’

Earlier this week it was reported that he was in talks to take the role, likely to be along the lines of the part played by Jason Segel in last year’s comeback film.

Gervais shot a cameo for the first movie, but the scene didn't make the final cut.

There are said to be three main human stars in the new film, with Modern Family actor Ty Burrell in line to play another of them, a lazy Interpol inspector. Segel will not be returning.

The Muppets sequel will be directed by James Bobin, and written by Nicholas Stoller – the same as last year’s hit, which made more than £92million at the box office.

Published: 19 Dec 2012