Bradley Cooper has reportedly joined Paramount’s new live-action G.I. Joe film as Duke, the celebrated team leader. The project is being directed by Danny McBride and represents the latest attempt to bring the toy and comic-book franchise back to cinemas.
Cooper is reportedly Paramount’s choice for Duke
Reports published on October 1 say Cooper signed on after several weeks of negotiations. McBride had reportedly wanted the actor for Duke from the beginning, although Cooper’s demanding schedule initially created uncertainty around his availability.
After reading the screenplay and speaking with McBride, Cooper was apparently enthusiastic about taking the role. The casting also reunites the pair after Cooper made a guest appearance in McBride’s HBO comedy series The Righteous Gemstones.
Cooper is currently writing, directing and starring in Warner Bros.’ still-in-production Ocean’s Eleven prequel. That commitment was one factor that made his involvement in the new action film less certain.
A separate continuity for the franchise
Story details remain limited, but McBride has previously said the film will follow Duke and the team as they battle Cobra in Springfield. He has also stated that the project will not be a comedy.
The new movie will not continue the crossover direction suggested by the ending of the most recent Transformers film. It is also separate from the live-action G.I. Joe movies released in 2009 and 2013, as well as the 2021 Snake Eyes origin film.
That makes McBride’s project Paramount’s third attempt to restart the live-action G.I. Joe series. For arcade fans interested in the franchise’s action-game potential, the wider arcade news archive offers more coverage of gaming and entertainment culture.
Why the casting matters to arcade fans
Duke has long been one of the most recognisable figures in the G.I. Joe universe, making the choice of a major film star significant for the reboot’s profile. A more grounded military adventure could also provide a different tone from the earlier films and the franchise’s animated history.
While no arcade adaptation has been announced, the film’s team-versus-Cobra premise naturally fits the fast action of a light-gun shooter. Anyone planning a dedicated games room can also compare full-size arcade machines for other action-focused experiences.
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