Magnussen Replaces Gyllenhaal On "Into the Woods"

Soap actor Billy Magnussen is in final talks to replace Jake Gyllenhaal in the film adaptation of the classic 1980s Stephen Sondheim Broadway musical "Into the Woods" says  Deadline.

Gyllenhaal had been in talks to play Rapunzel's Prince for Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides director Rob Marshall who will call action on the musical adaptation. However, he had already committed to star in the indie thriller "Nightcrawler"--leaving the chance for Magnussen to step into the part .

The musical tells the story of a baker (James Corden) and his wife’s (Emily Blunt) attempt to have a family, but uses several classic fairy tale characters, such as Cinderella (Anna Kendrick), Rapunzel and Little Red Riding Hood, to enhance the story.

Musical co-creator James Lapine is now adapting the script and the film is expected to feature new songs by Sondheim.

Meryl Streep will play The Witch. a character originated on Broadway by Bernadette Peters. Johnny Depp is playing a sexy version of the Big Bad Wolf. Chris Pine is poised to play the film’s other prince. Tracey Ullman will play the mother to Jack the Giant Killer. Anna Kendrick has joined the film as Cinderella. Christine Baranski also stars.

Production is due to get going this fall