We may have an actor to portray Uncle Jeb

More exciting casting news for the movie adaptation of The Host! The role of Uncle Jeb is being eyed by actor William Hurt. EW reports:

Oscar-winning actor William Hurt is in talks to join Andrew Niccol’s film adaptation of Stephenie Meyer’s sci-fi novel The Host, according to a source close to the production. Hurt would play the pivotal role of Jeb, eccentric uncle to Saoirse Ronan’s Melanie Stryder, whose brain is hijacked by the soul of an alien being known as Wanderer. Jeb is one of the grizzled leaders of the human survivalists fighting the alien invasion.

Now, as we all know, an actor being ‘in talks’ about a part doesn’t necessarily mean that they are going to get the role. However, EW is generally a credible source. William Hurt has an extensive and impressive resume, which you can find on his IMDB page along with some more photos. When we get any kind of confirmation on this, we will let you know. What are your thoughts/reactions? Let us know in the comments!

(If you need a refresher on Uncle Jeb’s personality and characteristics, check out his Character Biography in the Novel section of our site.)