Christopher
Walken joins Hairspray

The film Hairspray has undergone some changes. Daily Variety announced Thursday that Christopher Walken will replace Jim Broadbent, who was previously cast in the role of the father, Wilbur Turnblad. No reason for the replacement was given.

"Chris was the person [co-lyricist-composer] Scott [Whitman] and I wanted in the first place, and this is a happy ending to this particular saga," said out lyricist-composer Marc Shaiman. "It seems like this part allows him to coalesce all his skills into one role. I am constantly pessimistic, but I look at this cast and feel like I've fallen into an old MGM musical."

Out director Adam Shankman will also be choreographing the musical numbers in the film, including "Timeless," in which Walken will be paired with John Travolta, who is playing Edna Turnblad. (The Advocate)