Adam Driver has been in talks with some big studios for some major roles in recent months, but a new report has him nearing a deal to play the villain in J.J. Abrams' Star Wars: Episode VII.  The deal isn't done just yet, and there are (obviously) no details to the role itself, but Driver is apparently close to signing on for a role that would rival the iconic Darth Vader.  Were this to become official, it would be the first casting news for the highly anticipated film, due out December 18, 2015.  Hit the jump for more.

Variety reports

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that Driver is nearing a deal to antagonize the heroes in Star Wars: Episode VII.  Recently, Driver had been rumored to be in the casting mix but has now emerged as the top choice for the film's villain, beating out such other talents as Michael Fassbender and Hugo Weaving.  The final decision was delayed in part because of Driver's schedule, which was complicated by his commitment to the HBO show, Girls.  It's not only the upcoming fourth season of the Lena Dunham series that threw a potential wrench into the works, but possible future seasons as well, which makes Driver's role one that's likely to appear in multiple Star Wars films.

The direct sequel to Star Wars: Return of the Jedi is scheduled to shoot at London’s Pinewood Studios in April, so expect additional cast members to be announced over the coming weeks.  The original cast of Mark Hamill, Harrison Ford and Carrie Fisher are expected to appear in some capacity.

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