NEWS: Russell Brand Play's Legendary Swordsman

Russell Brand is gearing up to play a swashbuckling 14th Century hero in a new action comedy. The funny man best known for his 'long daft hair' and more recently his engagement to pop sensation Katy Perry, is taking on the title role in Hawkwood based on the life of 14th century mercenary John Hawkwood. Hawkwood was a gifted swordsman off dubious morality who was paid to fight on behalf of various European armies during the Renaissance wars in Italy.

Executive producer of the film Nicky Weinstock is a former partner of Judd Apatow, who worked with Brand on Forgetting Sarah Marshall. A deal with 20th Century Fox, could also see Brand co-producing the film.

Brand is currently starring in the must see film Get Him To The Greek and has recently wrapped the role of Trinculo opposite Helen Mirren in Julie Taymor's new version of The Tempest, which will debut at the Venice and Toronto film festivals this year. He also provides the voice of the Easter Bunny in Hop, the new film from the producers of box office smash Despicable Me.

Brand is currently filming the title role in the remake of Dudley Moore comedy Arthur.