Remember back in February when the internet started a crazy rumor about Ed Helms starring in a reboot of the National Lampoon franchise? And remember when he said (to Moviefone), back then that “I have a hard time wrapping my head around [a remake]. I’m not a big fan conceptually of remakes but anything’s possible” in regards to the whole idea?
Well the rumor is that Helms may have changed his tune, as Variety is reporting that he may just be planning to take over the franchise after all! Although, it might not be as everyone originally thought. Now, we’ve reached out to Helm’s rep for comment, but (Cue Adele’s “Rumor Has It”) apparently Helms would NOT be playing the iconic Chevy Chase character of Clark Griswold, but rather that of his son, Rusty (back in the day he was played by Anthony Michael Hall). It would be a variation on a theme, a continuation of the familial shenanigans–just not retelling the same old stories.
With an announcement like this–regardless of what character Helms is playing–comparisons between the new comedians are inevitable. Could the NBC network-mates have more in common with each other than just the peacock? Let’s take a look.
Their senses of humor are both goofy, for sure. And they both come from esteemed comedy backgrounds–Helms studied improvisation at the world-famous Upright Citizen’s Brigade theater, and Chase’s improv skills have been well-known since his Saturday Night Live days. Plus, the lovable awkward dude is a character completely in each guy’s wheelhouse. So maybe they’re onto something here!
If he’s going to make it work, though, this makes Helm’s schedule quite tight! Before he goes back to The Office, he’s working on the new film They Came Together, and starts The Hangover III in September. This would start filming theoretically in the spring–so if nothing else, plan to see a lot more of Helms in the future!
What do you think of this potential casting choice? Sound off in the comments!
[Variety]
[Image Credit: NBC]
Follow Alicia on Twitter @alicialutes
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