Zac Efron tipped to star in Saturday Night Fever remake

Zac Efron, the High School Musical actor, could star in a Simon Cowell produced remake of the disco classic Saturday Night Fever, it has been reported. Photo / AP

American Icol judge Simon Cowell is lining up Zac Efron for the lead role in a remake of 1977 classic Saturday Night Fever, according to reports.

The music mogul is believed to be in talks with film producer Robert Stigwood, who owns the rights to the screenplay, to update the classic 1977 John Travolta movie and wants Zac Efron for the lead role.

A source told Britain's The Sun newspaper: "Simon has been looking into buying the rights for years and opened discussions with Robert about the remake.

"The charm offensive has been in full swing and they made a breakthrough over the last couple of weeks. Robert was keen to get some assurances the original wouldn't be completely butchered before he agreed to the deal.

"Simon has been drawing up a list of people he wants to get involved.

When that meets Robert's expectations, the contracts will be signed."

Hip-hop producer Timbaland is in the frame to rework the classic soundtrack, which topped the US charts for a massive 24 weeks when it was released.

The soundtrack featured a host of classic disco songs by The Bee Gees, including Stayin' Alive, More Than A Woman and Night Fever.

The movie tells the story of New York teenager Tony Manero – played by Travolta – who is a hit on the dance floor but unsuccessful in the rest of his life.

- BANG! SHOWBIZ