John Boyega is to star in the sequel to Pacific Rim, playing the son of the character whom Idris Elba played in its 2013 predecessor.

Boyega, 24, confirmed his involvement on Twitter, saying he was both "very excited" and "so happy" to be on board as both an actor and producer.

Steven S DeKnight will direct Pacific Rim: Maelstrom, which will follow on from Guillermo del Toro's original.

Del Toro said he "couldn't think of a better man for the job (than Boyega)".

"I am very proud and happy to welcome John into a fantastic sandbox," said the Mexican film-maker, who is also among the new film's producers.

"The Pacific Rim universe will be reinforced with him as a leading man as it continues to be a multicultural, multi-layered world."

Source: Press Release