Matt Smith, who is leaving Doctor Who following the show’s Christmas special, will be starring on the London stage in a musical version of the cult film American Psycho.
The Daily Mail reported that Smith filmed his final scenes for Doctor Who this past weekend and began rehearsals for American Psycho on Monday. The production will open in December at the Almeida Theatre.
“It’s a damn difficult role to pull off and Smith has charm and the acting chops to do it,” a production source told the Daily Mail. “It’s bold casting and brave for Smith to take it on.”
Smith will play Patrick Bateman, the Wall Street banker who is a serial killer by night. The role was played by Christian Bale in the 2000 film, based on Bret Easton Ellis’ novel. The Daily Mail claims that American producers are already working with the London production and are considering bringing it to Broadway if the U.K. critics like it.
American Psycho is still a popular property. Last month, it was announced that FX and Lionsgate are working on a television series that would serve as a sequel. Patrick will now be in his 50s, but is still a dangerous killer and takes on a protege.
According to Deadline, Smith has been on the London stage before, appearing inThe History Boys, Fresh Kills and Swimming With Sharks. He is slated to appear in How To Catch A Monster, Ryan Gosling’s first film as director.
It was announced this summer that Smith is leaving Doctor Who at the end of the year. He’ll be replaced by Peter Capaldi.
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