MGM and Paramount's upcoming Timur Bekmambetov-directed remake of Ben-Hur has officially added its first cast member. Deadline reports that Morgan Freeman who, earlier this week, signed on for Seth MacFarlane's Ted 2, will play Ildarin, the man who trains Ben-Hur.

We learned last month that Tom Hiddleston was being eyed for the title role, but no official decision has, as of yet, been announced.

Set for release on February 26, 2016, the new take on Ben-Hur was originally scripted by Keith Clarke (The Way Back), with revisions by Academy Award-winner John Ridley (12 Years a Slave). It is based on Lew Wallace's 1880 epic novel "Ben-Hur: A Tale of The Christ."

The film is said to return to the heart of the epic novel with a focus on the nature of faith. The story follows a falsely-accused nobleman who survives years of slavery to take vengeance on his best friend who betrayed him. Both must come to choose between retribution or forgiveness.

Producers include Mark Burnett, Sean Daniel and Joni Levin with Jason F. Brown, Keith Clarke, Roma Downey and John Ridley serving as executive producer.

Source: Press Release