Al Pacino To Play Joe Paterno Role In New Film

Al Pacino's newest gig may turn out to be the most controversial.

The legendary actor is set to take on the part of former Penn State coach Joe Paterno in an on-screen reunion with director Brian De Palma for "Happy Valley." Deadline reports that Pacino's name has been loosely attached to the flick's headlining role since last fall.

“'Happy Valley' reunites the "Scarface" and "Carlito’s Way" team of De Palma and Pacino for the third time and I can’t think of a better duo to tell this story of a complex, intensely righteous man who was brought down by his own tragic flaw,” said producer Edward R. Pressman.

While the exact timeline of Paterno's life in the film is still unknown, the producers are trying to keep a "low profile" about the plot. Dave McKenna--known for his contributions to "American History X" and "Blow"--may write the script.

The disgraced football coach passed away from lung cancer in Jan. 2012 after being fired from his position at Penn State. He was tied to the high-profile sex scandal involving former defensive coordinator Jerry Sandusky. Paterno allegedly was aware of his behavior but did not speak on it.