Oscar-nominated director Lee Daniels has confirmed actor and stand-up star Mike Epps will play comedian Richard Pryor in his forthcoming biopic.

Daniels broke the news on Twitter, posting a picture of himself with Epps with Oprah Winfrey at a script reading.

Winfrey, who Daniels directed in The Butler, will play Pryor's grandmother.

Epps, who has acted in The Hangover and Resident Evil, also posted a photo of himself kissing the ring of Pryor's widow Jennifer Lee, for "the blessing".

Several other stars, including America's Got Talent host Nick Cannon, Michael B Jordan and Marlon Wayans, were reported to have been in talks to play Pryor in the film.

Known for his x-rated routines, Pryor is widely regarded as one of America's most influential comedians.

Before Pryor's death from a heart attack in December 2005 at the age of 65, both he and his wife had earmarked Epps to play him in a film that they would have produced.

Source: Press Release