Russell Crowe to star in Darren Aronofsky`s `Noah`s Ark`

Los Angeles: ‘Gladiator’ star Russell Crowe has been officially tapped to star in director Darren Aronofsky`s biblical retelling ‘Noah’.

The 47-year-old actor will play the devoted ark builder, a role which was originally offered to Christian Bale and Michael Fassbender, reported Ace Showbiz. The film will reunite Crowe with screenwriter John Logan, who penned the script for Ridley Scott`s Oscar-winning ‘Gladiator’. "I would like to thank Paramount and Regency for backing my team`s work to breathe new life into the biblical epic. I rejoice that Russell Crowe will be by my side on this adventure. It`s his immense talent that helps me to sleep at night. I look forward to being wowed by him every day," Aronofsky said. "Since I was a kid, I have been moved and inspired by the story of Noah and his family`s journey. The imaginations of countless generations have sparked to this epic story of faith. It is my hope that I can present a window into Noah`s passion and perseverance for the silver screen," he added. ‘Noah`s Ark’ will be released in 2014. PTI