It looks like searching for Sienna Miller's replacement for the ever-delayed **Nottingham **will not delay things much longer – because Mark Strong says that a replacement has been found. Making the announcement with a fair amount of certainty, Strong told the Telegraph at the at the London Film Critics' Circle Awards: "I think Cate Blanchett is set to take the Maid Marian part."
Strong should know, as he himself is signed on to play Sir Guy of Gisborne in the production, the right-hand man to Body of Lies co-star Russell Crowe who takes on the malevolent mantle of Sheriff of Nottingham.
Sir Ridley of Scott's production has been delayed repeatedly due to script, weather and casting issues – with the colour of leaves even cited as one factor. However, now that Miller has moved on to pastures new, news of Blanchett's addition could mean that the project is taking shape. Strong at least thinks that the ethereal Australian actress' presence could adjust the tone of the film, saying: "She is a wonderful actress and it would make it a much classier film if she was in it."
**Nottingham **continues production and was scheduled to film later this year, but Empire will steal news from the rich (producers) to give to the poor (readers – well, comparatively), if that changes.