Mike Epps has been cast as the star of ABC’s Uncle Buck television remake with an all African American cast.
Epps was cast in the role on Tuesday, reports Entertainment Weekly. He will star as Buck Russell, the fun-loving, childish man who is tasked with taking care of his brother’s children.
Joining Epps is Nia Long (Friday, House of Lies), who will star as Alexis, the wife of Buck’s brother, Will.
ABC began developing the project back in October. Just last month, it was reported that ABC decided to go with an all African American cast for its new version of the 1989 John Hughes film.
Epps will have some big shoes to fill, since Buck was originally played by the late John Candy. Epps appeared in the first and third Hangover films and also stars on Starz’s Survivor’s Remorse. His other credits include Sparkle and Nick Cannon’s School Dance.
The Uncle Buck pilot is being written by Steven Cradd and Brian Bradley, with Phil Traill directing.
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