Matthew Rhys to play Mr Darcy

Actor Matthew Rhys has seen off competition from Dan Stevens, Eddie Redmayne and Hugh Dancy to win the coveted role of Mr Darcy in a 'Pride and Prejudice' spin-off.
The 'Americans' star has been given a lead role in an upcoming BBC period drama called 'Death Comes to Pemberley', which is adapted from the Pride and Prejudice sequel written by PD James, reported Daily Star.
'Downton Abbey' star Stevens was said to be in competition for the part, along with Redmayne, Dancy and 'Thor' actor Tom Hiddleston.
Rhys said he is looking forward to putting his own spin on the character, and hopes he won't be compared to Oscar-winner Colin Firth, who played Mr Darcy in a famous BBC adaptation of the Jane Austen classic.

"Of course I am stepping into the shoes of others who have played the part, but I don't think there will be too many comparisons with Colin Firth. Mine is a different Darcy who has mellowed and has kids," he said.
The female lead of Elizabeth Bennet will be played by Anna Maxwell Martin. Filming on 'Death Comes to Pemberley' is due to begin over the summer.