Actor MATTHEW McCONAUGHEY is now the hot tip to star as ROBERT BURNS in a new bio-pic.

ALAN SHARP has penned the script about the 18th century Scottish poet. The choice of the Texas-born actor will cause major controversy.

SIR SEAN CONNERY may play a cameo role as Burns' father. He is understood to be also showing an interest in financially backing the project. But, according to sources, Burns needs interest from Hollywood to make it an international success. A senior source close to the production says, "American backing may be vital to secure decent distribution. "McConaughey is now an established star and as much as the likes of JOHN HANNAH and ROBERT CARLYLE are brilliant and Scottish, they don't mean as much over there."

McConaughey made his breakthrough in A TIME TO KILL and has starred in CONTACT and U571. Sharp also created ROB ROY and THE OSTERMAN WEEKEND. (RGS/WNWCAN/CPT)

Source: WENN