Chace Crawford Catches "Footloose" Fever

Best known for his uneasy, Upper East Side persona as Nate Archibald on the hit television series, Gossip Girl, Chace Crawford is now setting his sights on movies. He is officially set to star in Paramount's Footloose remake.

Playing the character of Ren McCormack, originally played by Kevin Bacon 25 years ago, Crawford, 23, takes the role that once belonged to Zac Efron, reported BBC News.

The High School Musical star, who seemed very committed to the part, is rumored to have dropped the film because of its similarity to his previous roles. Whether or not Crawford actually auditioned for the role remains unknown.

Under the direction of Kenny Ortega, producers think the cast switch will only strengthen the film. They believe Gossip Girl fans, who are generally older than those drawn to Disney entertainment like High School Musical, will watch Footloose with a more mature eye, according to gaywired.com.

While preparing for the film, Crawford will continue his role as Archibald for a third season. He will also star in Twelve, a film by Joel Schumacher, where he will play a drug dealing high school dropout.

Footloose is scheduled for release in 2010.