Robert Downey Jr. to Star as ‘Dr. Dolittle’

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Nothing is ever (and we mean, ever) going to top Eddie Murphy’s version of Dr. Dolittle, the classic character who can talk to animals. But needless to say, we’re always open to new interpretations, and this one looks like it’s going to be a PARTY!

Robert Downey Jr. is now stepping into the shoes of the beloved Dr. Dolittle for Universal Pictures, according to Variety. Stephen Gaghan will be directing and writing the screenplay, which also had an earlier draft by Tom Shepherd.

The movie, The Voyage of Doctor Dolittle, is based around the famous 1920s children’s books in which a Victorian-era physician opts to treat animals instead of humans because he’s able to speak to them.

Eddie Murphy’s 1998 film and the 2001 sequel were box office smashes, bringing in over $470 million worldwide.

The 1967 version starring Rex Harrison won Oscars for best original son and best visual effects.

This new one is sure to repeat history, but first let’s take a look at the other versions — just to refresh our memories: