Deadline’s saying that Idris Elba will take over the role from Freeman in an adaption of the 12th book in James Patterson’s series, Cross (which noticeably breaks from his “menacing nursery rhyme” titling scheme.) It sounds like they’re going to try to “inject some new blood” in the film franchise the way that The Sum of All Fears was supposed to do for Jack Ryan. Elba’s a fine actor. I’m sure he’ll do a good job. You all agree with me, right?
While we’re on the subject of literary franchises and Morgan Freeman, I think it’s worth noting that Freeman's said a few times that he’s always wanted to play Hannibal Lecter, but figured he'd never got the opportunity because overly-sensitive execs would be leery of having a black actor play such an evil villain. He didn't get to be too menacing in Wanted, but I'm sure he'd make a terrifying heel. Imagine him in Red Dragon.
