It’s been quite a while since we last had an update on The Happytime Murders, a long-gestating R-rated comedy noir from director Brian Henson. Deadline today has an update, however, reporting that Jamie Foxx has entered negotiations to play a leading role in the unusual feature from STX Entertainment and The Jim Henson Company. The official synopsis for The Happytime Murders reads as follows:
In a world where puppets co-exist with humans as second class citizens, puppet private eye and disgraced ex-cop, Phil Phillips, is hot on the trail of the serial killer who murdered his brother and is now targeting the cast members of the famous 80s television show, The Happytime Gang. As the killings continue, Phils former flame, Jenny, is next on the list. Its up to Phil and his ex-partner, Detective Edwards, to find the culprit, but as bad blood and old resentments resurface the clues start pointing to the only viable suspect, Phil himself. Now hes on the run with only his wits and hard headed determination, as he tries to solve, The Happytime Murders.
Jamie Foxx, who took home an Academy Award for his work in 2004’s Ray, last starred in 2014’s Annie. He has quite a few high profile features coming up, however, as he’s set to lead the American remake of the French actioner Sleepless Night, will play Little John in Lionsgate‘s Robin Hood: Origins, and is joining the ensemble of Edgar Wright’s now-filming musical heist actioner Baby Driver.