Gerard Butler could be lending his sex appeal to the big-screen version of The Professionals. The Scottish star is apparently being eyed up to play one of the secret agents Bodie and Doyle, originally portrayed by Martin Shaw and Lewis Collins in the 1970s TV series, while Liam Neeson and Gary Oldman are reportedly being considered to play their CI5 boss Cowley. Gerard - who has acted in 300, The Bounty Hunter and RocknRolla - faces competition from fellow Brits Tom Hardy and Jason Statham for the role, according to Deadline.com. Lionsgate UK CEO Zygi Kamasa said: "We really felt there was an opportunity for a bigger British action film. The ambition is to make a powerful commercial movie with the best of British talent." Production on the remake, which has yet to find a director, is set to begin this autumn. The Professionals film, produced by Callum McDougall (Casino Royale and Quantum Of Solace) and Richard Whelan (Captain America), will show how British military-trained mercenary Bodie and former detective Doyle unite to work for covert security unit CI5.
