Lloyd Webber protegee in Miserables film
Published Thursday, 02 February 2012
Theatre impresario Andrew Lloyd Webber is delighted his musical protegee Samantha Barks has been cast in the movie adaptation of Les Miserables, branding her the "perfect" person to play Eponine.
Barks, who competed in Lloyd Webber's 2008 TV talent show I'd Do Anything, saw off competition from Scarlett Johansson, Lea Michele and Taylor Swift to land the coveted role in director Tom Hooper's upcoming big screen adaptation.
And Lloyd Webber is overjoyed Barks, who came third in his search to find a star to play Nancy in the Oliver! musical, has snatched the part from Hollywood big hitters.
He tells the Daily Express: "I'm incredibly proud that Samantha is enjoying such huge success. She will make the perfect Eponine and I wish her all the luck."