The BBC is preparing to launch a brand new Jimmy Savile drama next year with Welsh actor Rhys Ifans being lined up to play the disgraced former Leeds DJ and TV personality, according to reports.
Savile, who lived in Leeds for most of his life, died in 2011, but it has since emerged that he was one of the UK's most prolific sexual predators.
Three years after his death, an independent inquiry found that he abused dozens of people throughout his high-profile career.
Several of his victims have since spoken out about the trauma he caused and the new BBC mini-series, The Reckoning, will focus on these stories.
Notting Hill and Enduring Love star Ifans, 53, is in line to take on the disturbing role as Savile, reports The Mirror.
“Producers have approached Rhys," a source told The Sun.
“They think he has the acting ability and could be made to look like Savile.
“Obviously it will be a dark role to take on.
Although an air date for the new season is yet to be confirmed, filming is anticipated to start shortly and the release date is tipped for 2021.
"Filming will get under way soon so the BBC need to sign someone," the insider continued.
"If not Rhys they are likely to select an unknown actor.”
A representative for Rhys, who has also starred in the Harry Potter film franchise and The Amazing Spider-Man, has been contacted by MirrorOnline for comment.
It was only after Jimmy Savile's death in 2011 that hundreds of victims came forward with allegations of sexual abuse.
The former DJ and Top Of The Pops presenter has since been identified as one of the UK's most prolific sexual predators.
BBC producer Jeff Pope recently opened up about the upcoming mini-series.
“We must understand why a man like Savile seemed to remain immune for so long to proper scrutiny and criminal investigation,” the television boss said.
BBC's Pete Wegner added: "The story of Jimmy Savile is one of the most emotive and troubling of our times.
"We do not intend to sensationalise these crimes but to give voice to his victims.
"We will work with survivors to ensure their stories are told with sensitivity and respect and to examine the institutions which Jimmy Savile was associated with and the circumstances in which these crimes took place.
"Drama has the ability to tackle sensitive real life subjects and consider the impact of a crime on its survivors and what lessons can be learnt to stop this ever happening again."
