Jackie Earle Haley, the Top Contender for 'Green Lantern' Villain

© Carla Van Wagoner/PR Photos

Following confirmation about its production that has been pulled out of Australia, "Green Lantern" is hit with a casting rumor. Ain't It Cool News (AICN) has come up with the story that the lead villain in this adaptation of the DC Comics' superhero may well be portrayed by Jackie Earle Haley.

According to Harry Knowles of AICN, someone "working on the film" claimed that the new Freddy Krueger of "A Nightmare on Elm Street" is on top of the actors list considered for the part of Sinestro. The scooper reportedly also spoiled that Superman "will be making a cameo," adding that "all depends upon how... other DC things go."

Sinestro is the former mentor of Hal Jordan and the arch-nemesis of the entire Green Lantern Corps. He was banished from the Corps after using the power of the Green Lantern to instill fear rather than combat it. In the casting call, the character is described to be "smart, tough, intimidating and in great physical shape".

"Green Lantern" centers on Hal Jordan, an ordinary man who was chosen by a dying alien named Abin Sur to receive a green energy-powered ring used for protecting the planet. Martin Campbell takes the directing job for the film, and Ryan Reynolds stars. June 17, 2011 is the planned U.S. release schedule for the movie.

Jackie Earle Haley is best known for his portrayal of pedophile Ronnie McGorvey in "Little Children". The part earned him an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor. Having starred in various movies, including "Semi-Pro" and "All the King's Men", the 48-year-old took on the role of Rorschach in Zack Snyder's "Watchmen". He'll next be seen in "Shutter Island" in addition to the forthcoming "A Nightmare on Elm Street".