Michael Pena Eyes Ridley Scott's 'The Martian'

Once a scene-stealing supporting player, Michael Pena is now one of Hollywood's most sought after actors. The Cesar Chavez and End of Watch star is now the target of Ridley Scott, who wants him for a role opposite Matt Damon in The Martian.

Based on the Andy Weir novel and adapted by Drew Goddard, The Martian has Damon as Mark Watney, the first man to walk on Mars who must find a way to survive when an accident leaves him stranded. Whether Pena comes aboard will depend on his busy schedule. He'll be seen in the WWII tank thriller, Fury, and has moved to television for the Fox miniseries, Gracepoint.

He's just the latest name mentioned for a role in The Martian over the last few days. Jessica Chastain, Kristen Wiig, Mackenzie Davis, and Kate Mara are said to be in the discussion but have not been confirmed. [Variety]