Robert Downey Jr. to Play Dr. Dolittle in New Movie

Robert Downey Jr. has just signed on to star as the titular veterinarian in The Voyage of Doctor Dolittle, which is to be helmed by the director of … Syriana?

Variety reports that Stephen Gaghan’s (Gold) film will be based on author Hugh Lofting’s 1920s children’s book series. Other than that, there’s been no word on the film’s plot or a prospective release date. Plans for the picture were apparently set into motion after Universal recently won the franchise’s rights in an intense bidding war.

Previously, Rex Harrison played Dolittle in the 1967 musical version of Dr. Dolittle, more than 30 years before before Eddie Murphy played the character in a comedy by the same name (as well as in that movie’s 2001 sequel).

Downey Jr.’s next film appearance will see him suit up as Iron Man once again in July’s Spider-Man: Homecoming. You can check out the most recent trailer for that film here.