AceShowbiz -

John Boyega will lead the cast of Legendary's "Pacific Rim 2". Deadline reported that the "Star Wars: The Force Awakens" star signed on for the lead role in the sequel. He will play the son of Idris Elba's character Stacker Pentecost.

The vice chairman of Legendary Pictures, Mary Parent, explained why Boyega landed the role, "It is undeniable that with all his talent and natural charm, John stands out amongst today's generation of young leading men."

Guillermo del Toro who directed the first film said, "I am very proud and happy to welcome John into a fantastic sandbox. The 'Pacific Rim' universe will be reinforced with him as a leading man as it continues to be a multicultural, multi-layered world. 'The World saving the world' was our goal and I couldn't think of a better man for the job."

The sequel will be directed by Steven S. DeKnight based on the story written by del Toro and Travis Beacham. Thomas Tull, Mary Parent, Jon Jashni and del Toro will produce the film along with Boyega and Femi Oguns through their production company, Upper Room Entertainment. The picture is a beach head project for Legendary, under the leadership of Parent. Production will begin later this year.

The first installment of "Pacific Rim", starring Elba and Charlie Hunnam, earned $411 million worldwide. Hunnam and Rinko Kikuchi were expected to return before the indefinite delay was announced last September, but it's unclear if they're still on board the sequel.

Boyega, who starred in 2011's film "Attack the Block", will next be seen opposite Tom Hanks and Emma Watson in the upcoming sci-fi drama film "The Circle". He is also a voice cast member on upcoming animated TV series "Watership Down" alongside James McAvoy and Ben Kingsley. The British actor is currently filming "Star Wars: Episode VIII" in which he will reprise his role as Finn.