The idea of turning the 70/80’s TV hit series CHiPS, which made Eric Estrada an international star, into a film has been kicked around for years and it seems it will finally get made. IWarner Bros. recently announced that Dax Shepard has been hired to write, direct and star in the film. Shepard will play the role of Officer Jon Baker (the role originally played by Larry Wilcox) while Michael Peña has been attached for the role of Frank “Ponch” Poncherello.
This is not the first time attempt at a film version of CHiPs by Warner Bros. In 2005 a film version that had Wilmer Valderrama (That 70’s Show) playing the role of “Ponch” was announced . Erick Estrada and Larry Wilcox were all set to do cameos in the film, however the film stalled and the idea fizzled out, until this new announcement.
Both Shepard and Peña bring some major star power to the film. Shepard is an audience favorite as Crosby Braverman on the hit show Parenthood which has been airing on NBC for three seasons. Peña star profile is already impressive with credits in both TV (Eastbound & Down) who is currently starring in Gracepoint for FOX . His long list of film credits (End of Watch, Crash) include the recent title role in Cesar Chavez and this weekend can be seen working alongside Ed Harris and Eva Longoria in Frontera. Next he will be seen alongside Brad Pitt in Fury which releases October 17th. Shepard’s film credits include big films like the recently released Veronica Mars and The Judge, set to release October 10. Both these films are for Warner Bros.
Shepard directing credits include the indie comedy Hit & Run and another comedy Brother’s Justice, both of which he also wrote. Shepard’s Primate Pictures will produce, along with Andrew Panay. CHiPS TV series creator Rick Rosner will executive produce, and Jesse Ehrman and Nik Mavinkurve will oversee for Warner Bros.
Michael Peña is repped by CAA.
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