Duke's Role in 'G.I. Joe' Went to Channing Tatum?

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The rising young actor Channing Tatum has reportedly nailed the part of Duke in Paramount Pictures' latest project. According to AICN.com, the star of dancing drama "Step Up" has been entrusted with the role of the "G.I. Joe: Rise of Cobra" team leader.

Based on Hasbro's line of action figures, "Joe" is a live action film starring Sienna Miller, Ray Park, Marlon Wayans, Rachel Nichols, Adewale Akinnuoye-Agbaje and Said Taghmaoui. It tells the story of an international co-ed force of operatives who use hi-tech equipment to battle an evil organization headed by a double-crossing Scottish arms dealer 'Cobra'. The film is set to start shooting in February 2008 and slated for release on August 7, 2009.

Earlier, it was reported that Tatum is among the last three candidates up for the role. He was said to be contending against Chris Evans and Matthew Fox. Previously, the 27-year-old actor has appeared in "Coach Carter", "She's the Man" and "A Guide to Recognizing Your Saints". He recently starred in "Stop-Loss" which will hit theaters on March 28.

UPDATE 01/29/08: Following the rumor that he got the lead part in "G.I. Joe", Hollywood Reporter has confirmed that the co-star of Amanda Bynes in "She's the Man" is indeed going to portray Duke in the Paramount's action film. The actor found time to fill the role since the production of Oliver Stone's "Pinkville", which he had been cast earlier, has been put on hold.