Lee Pace Joins Cast of ‘The Running Man’ Film Adaptation

Lee Pace, famously known for his role as the villain Ronan the Accuser in Marvel Studios‘ “Guardians of the Galaxy,” is set to dive back into villainous roles. The actor has finalized negotiations to join the cast of Paramount‘s adaptation of Stephen King‘s novel “The Running Man,” alongside Glen Powell, Josh Brolin, and Katy O’Brian.

The film is being directed by Edgar Wright, who is also co-writing the script with Michael Bacall. Production of the movie is slated to begin early next year in London.

Stephen King’s “The Running Man,” initially published in 1982 under the pseudonym Richard Bachman, is set in the year 2025. The storyline revolves around a dystopian America under a totalitarian regime, where violent game shows serve to appease the population. As reported by sources close to the production, Glen Powell will play the protagonist, a desperate man partaking in the deadly game show to earn money for his daughter’s medical needs. Josh Brolin is cast as the game show’s ruthless producer, with Katy O’Brian featuring as one of the contestants.

Lee Pace will portray the chief hunter, a dangerous character tasked with capturing Powell’s character, adding to the dramatic tensions of the film. Paramount Pictures plans to release the film on November 21, 2025.

“The Running Man” was first adapted into a film in 1987, which starred Arnold Schwarzenegger. The upcoming film hopes to bring a fresh and thrilling perspective to the narrative of survival and defiance against dystopian control.

Lee Pace is known for his diverse roles across various media, including his performance in AMC’s drama “Halt and Catch Fire” and the Apple TV series “Foundation.” He is currently represented by WME and Peikoff Mahan Law.

Josh Brolin, another significant addition to the film’s cast, has a diverse portfolio, including roles in “Avengers: Infinity War,” “Dune: Part Two,” and “Milk,” for which he received an Oscar nomination. His upcoming projects include starring in “Wake Up Dead Man,” the third installment of the “Knives Out” series, and releasing his memoir “From Under the Truck” on November 19.