Hugh Jackman in line for 'Les Misérables' movie

Hugh Jackman is reportedly in talks to star in the big-screen musical adaptation of Les Miserables.

The Aussie actor would apparently play Jean Valjean, the man who steals bread to feed his sister and spends the ensuing years in prison (or trying to escape it) while also becoming the guardian of  a young woman named Cosette, all against the backdrop of a 19th century French rebellion.

William Nicholson wrote the script. The story is based on the Victor Hugo book but best known to millions as one of the longest-running musicals around.

Hugh recently admitted he doesn’t look “cool” enough when he is clean-shaven and claims directors always ask him to show up on set with a few days of stubble.

“The truth is, there’s rarely been a role in any movie where I haven’t had to have facial hair as I have a bit of a baby face,” he said.

“Every time I turn up on set the director says, ‘I think a four-day growth would be good!’ And every photo shoot I go on I get a call beforehand saying don’t shave because I don’t look cool enough apparently.

“It’s an occupational hazard.”