The ever-expanding Star Wars universe continues its reign as a powerful franchise with multiple sequels and spin-off films in the works – and they may have found a perfect actor to portray a young Han Solo!

26 year old actor Alden Ehrenreich was on the list of possible casting choices for the mysterious Han Solo prequel film in addition to Taron Egerton and Jack Reynor, however Deadline is now reporting that the talented and rising star is a frontrunner for a role that will be remembered for decades to come. Ehrenreich was the standout actor of the film Beautiful Creatures, going on to impress in the Cohen brothers film Hail, Caesar! with an upcoming role in the untitled Warren Beatty project about Howard Hughes. The site adds that Ehrenreich has continued to astonish after multiple screen tests, coming up against a variety of well known actors for the film that is set to be directed by Phil Lord and Christopher Miller. The star seemed like an instant fit for an iconic character –  and who wouldn’t love the chance to see the younger adventures of Han and Chewie?

It is a pleasant surprise to hear the hard working young actor could bring additional Han Solo stories to the franchise, so fingers crossed Ehrenreich makes it official soon enough! Are you excited about the possible casting choice? Let us know in the comments!