The Moulin Rouge! star is in final negotiations to play maitre d'-turned-candelabra Lumiere in Disney's live-action version of the 1991 animated blockbuster.

If he signs on he will join previously announced stars Emma Watson, Dan Stevens, Kevin Kline, Luke Evans, Josh Gad, Emma Thompson and Sir Ian MCKellen in the production, which is scheduled to begin shooting next month (May15).

Meanwhile, Stanley Tucci has just been added to the cast - The Hunger Games star will play new character Cadenza, a grand piano, in the fairytale film.