Johnny Depp has found his next role.
Depp has nabbed the part of infamous gangster Whitey Bulger in the upcoming thriller “Black Mass.” Adapted from Dick Lehr and Gerard O’Neill’s non-fiction bookof the same name, “Black Mass” will be directed by Barry Levinson (“Rain Man”).
“I could not be more thrilled to have the biggest star in the world and Academy Award-winning director Barry Levinson to finally bring this incredible story to the big screen,” producer Brian Oliver said in a release. “‘Black Mass’ expertly details the twists and turns of this highly complex story, painting a vivid portrait of Boston’s underbelly and its corrupt political machine, as well as exposing the worstscandal in FBI history. It’s also an examination of loyalty to family, Irish heritage, and South Boston.”
Bulger, 83, became famous for his mobster past and his work as an FBI informant.Bulger was arrested in 2011 and is facing charges for his involvement with killings and racketeering in the ’70s and ’80s.
Currently without a release date, “Black Mass” is to begin shooting in May. The film is to be produced and financed by Cross Creek Pictures and Exclusive Media, while Universal will be responsible for distribution.