Ricky Gervais in talks for human lead character in ‘The Muppets’ sequel

When it comes to The Muppets 2 — the sequel to the 2011 hit starring Jason Segal and Amy Adams — there are a few things we know. For one, it takes place in Europe, and ABC's Modern Family star Ty Burrell is one of the stars in it, signed on to play a lay Interpol agent.  Now, it appears that funny man Ricky Gervais — known for the British version of The Office, as well as hosting gigs and his brash humor — is in negotiation to play the human lead character in The Muppets 2. The film is said to have three main human roles, so they better get it figured out because production starts in January and the clock is ticking.

Opposite Kermit, Fozzie and MIss Piggy, Gervais would have big shoes to fill. Jason Segal shined in The Muppets, in addition to being 6'4". There was a lot of singing in that film, but it's yet to be known whether the sequel will call for more song and dance from its human leads. There was also a ton of cameos, which we are sure to see this time around, as well.

James Bobin is back to direct Muppets 2, and he co-wrote the screenplay with Nicholas Stoller. Bobin directed the 2011 Muppets film. The Muppets producers David Hoberman and Todd Lieberman are producing the sequel, which shoots in London in January. Here's a little fun fact: Ricky Gervais shot a cameo for the first movie, but the scene didn't make the final cut of the film.

One of my favorite Gervais scenes comes from Night at the Museum, and while I couldn't find a video of the scene, here's the audio… which is equally as funny…

You can follow Senior Editor Lance Liebl on Twitter @Lance_GZ. He likes talking sports, video games, movies, and the stupidity of celebrities. Email at LLiebl@GameZone.com

[Source: The Hollywood Reporter]