Emile Hirsch IS John Belushi For Biopic

Emile Hirsch ("Into the Wild") has won the lead in the Untitled Biopic about the late legendary comedian John Belushi says Variety. Adam Devine and Joaquin Phoenix were also in contention for the high profile roll.

Steve Conrad ("The Secret Life of Walter Mitty") wrote the adapted script--using the book "Belushi" by Judith Belushi Pisano and Tanner Colby--and will now take over the helm of the project after previous director Todd Phillips ("The Hangover") stepped down. Phillips remains as producer.

Nelson Franklin  is one of several names who've also had meetings to play one of Belushi's best friends Dan Aykroyd. Belushi and Ackroyd starred together on Saturday Night Live and in films such as "The Blues Brothers".

Belushi died at the age of 33 from a drug overdose at the Chateau Marmont in 1982.

The film will focus on Belushi at the height of his fame.

Aykroyd and Alexandra Milchan will executive produce.

Shooting is scheduled to begin in spring in New York