Tyler Perry Signs on for the Role of Alex Cross

Tyler Perry has signed on to play the role of Alex Cross in "I, Alex Cross," an upcoming movie based on James Patterson's popular novels about a crime solving detective-psychologist. Patterson's novel character, Alex Cross, has proven to be a hit among readers everywhere. The 18^th Alex Cross novel is due to be released in November this year.

Previously, Morgan Freeman has played the role of Alex Cross in the two films based on Patterson's novels called "Kiss the Girls" and "Along Came a Spider." But, now Tyler Perry will be taking over the role.

Tyler Perry is well known for his role as Madea, and the 2007 movie "Why did I get married." Aside from a small part in the 2009 "Star Trek," "I, Alex Cross" will be the first movie Tyler Perry will star in that he didn't have a part in the writing, directing, or producing. His latest project was the 2010 film "For Colored Girls."

Tyler Perry as a choice for the role is surprising, considering his history in the role of the crazy and outspoken woman, Madea and his urban dramas like "Why did I get Married." Will Perry be able to master the part of the more serious Detective Alex Cross enough to please Patterson's hard core fans?

"I, Alex Cross" is being directed by Rob Cohen (The Mummy: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor.) A first draft of the script has been composed by Patterson and Kerry Williamson and will be touched up later by screen writer Marc Moss. Rob Cohen is currently involved in several projects including "xXx: The Return of Xander Cage."

Fans of the character, Alex Cross, are excited to see how Tyler Perry will portray the character. The comparison between Morgan Freeman in the role and Tyler Perry simply cannot be avoided though. These men have very different characteristics which will obviously change the portrayal of the character.

Originally, Idris Elba was going to play the role of Alex Cross, what exactly happened and why Tyler Perry was chosen instead is unclear.

Sources:

http://voices.washingtonpost.com/celebritology/2011/02/tyler_perry_to_play_alex_cross.html

http://www.variety.com/article/VR1118031257

http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/tyler-perry-play-alex-cross-94823

http://www.movieinsider.com/p870/tyler-perry/