Brand in running for comedy sword fighter role

Russell Brand is being lined up to play the lead role in action-comedy movie 'Hawkwood'.

The British comedian is reportedly in negotiations to play the real-life swashbuckling figure, John Hawkwood - a morally challenged but gifted swordsman - who was paid to lead various European armies during the Renaissance wars, serving under several banners including those of both Italy and France.

The 34-year-old actor originally brought the idea to Fox comedy head Nicky Weinstock - who he worked with on 'Forgetting Sarah Marshall' and 'Get Him to the Greek' - as a starring vehicle for himself.

Russell is also set to produce the movie with Peter Chernin and Dylan Clark, while Nicky Weinstock will be executive producer, Deadline.com reports.

Jared Stern - who worked on rewriting Russell's upcoming remake of 'Arthur'- is writing the script.

This marks a busy year for the star who has just completed the role of Trinculo in 'The Tempest'.

He also provides the voice of the Easter Bunny in the Tim Hill-directed 'Hop' and is currently filming the remake of 'Arthur' alongside Helen Mirren.