Tyler Perry is losing the wig for his next gig and will utilize his “real” acting chops as he reprises a role previously portrayed by acting great Morgan Freeman.

In the upcoming movie I, Alex Cross, Perry will be donning the suit of detective-psychologist Alex Cross.

Freeman played the role of Alex Cross in the psychological thrillers, Kiss The Girls and Along Came A Spider, which were inspired by the famous James Patterson novels. However, QED, the production company for the film, wants to reboot the series with a younger, hipper actor in the lead role, hence Perry.

The role of Alex Cross, a brainy, complicated, jazz-loving cop-psychologist, would be a stark contrast from Perry’s roles in his own films, which he writes, acts and directs.  It’s not the first time TP has attempted other roles outside of his own films, he had a small role in the remake of Star Trek.

The casting move comes as a surprise considering that back in August it was reported that British actor Idris Elba was the front runner for the role. Elba was also due to portray the detective in an indie flick due to be directed by David Twohy, but that adaptation appears to be shelved for now.

There’s no doubt that Perry’s a certified “A” lister, but can be fill Morgan Freeman’s shoes?

In case you missed it:

Tyler Perry’s Response to Boondock’s Episode
Promo Pics: Tyler Perry Does “White Face” + Madea Goes Gangster…
TP to the Rescue! Fire Victims Get New Home Thanks to Tyler Perry…