MMA star and 'District 9' unknown to join 'A-Team'?

Posted Thursday, September 10, 2009 at 4:22 PM Central

by Tim Briscoe

The producers of The A-Team movie have their marquee names in Liam Neeson and Bradley Cooper. Are they willing to fill out the roster with two Hollywood lightweights?

The Vancouver Sun is reporting that Ultimate Fighter Quinton "Rampage" Jackson has been cast as B.A. Baracus, the role made famous by Mr. T. The MMA star has only a few minor acting credits including The Midnight Meat Train and Never Surrender.

BlackFilm.com is reporting that Sharlto Copley has earned the role of Howling Mad Murdock. If you've never heard that name, you're not alone. The South African TV/film producer recently had his first acting role in the breakout hit District 9.

Interestingly, when we had our own casting call for A-Team, Jackson was a popular choice -- along with lots of other WWE and UFC dudes. He definitely looks the part.

I still have my doubts on this news. I don't think they would trust an iconic role like B.A. to someone with very little experience. But then again, Joe Carnahan is directing. The man cast R&B musician/singer Alicia Keys in Smokin' Aces for her first film role.

As for Murdock, I have a new pick, Cooper's The Hangover co-star Zach Galifianakis. That guy can play crazy like nobody's business. (He is playing, isn't he?)

The A-Team is expected in theaters on June 11.