A bit of a casting change is being made for the sequel to the 2010 comedy Hot Tub Time Machine.  Unfortunately John Cusack—the star of the first film—is not returning for follow-up, but on the plus side the very funny Adam Scott is in talks to take over the leading role in the sequel.  The Parks and Recreation star is in early negotiations to play an entirely new leading man in the film, as it appears that Cusack’s character will be written out.  Original cast members Craig Robinson, Rob Corddry, and Clark Duke are all nearing deals to return, as is director Steve Pink.  Hit the jump for more.

News of Scott's casting comes courtesy of The Wrap.  The actor has shined with supporting turns in films like Step Brothers and Our Idiot Brother and the guy does stellar work on NBC's Parks and Rec, so I can’t help but think this might actually be a step up from Cusack.  The actor has already proven adept at being the male lead with Friends with Kids, and he also toplines the upcoming comedy A.C.O.D., which premiered at Sundance to positive reviews (read ours here).  Scott will next be seen on the big screen in Ben Stiller’s remake of The Secret Life of Walter Mitty, which opens this December.

Hot Tub Time Machine was a moderate success when it was released in 2010, and the prospect of a sequel was always a bit of a surprise.  The pic grossed just over $60 million against a $36 million budget, but one presumes it did well on home video.  When Steve recently caught up with Craig Robinson, he mentioned that all of the castmembers were currently in the dealmaking stage, but filming was poised to begin this June should everyone sign on.  This production schedule would jibe with Scott's casting, as he's due back for the next season of Parks and Recreation later this summer.