Hough may co-star with Cruise in 'Ages'

LOS ANGELES, March 4 (UPI) -- Julianne Hough is in talks to co-star with Tom Cruise in a big-screen version of the Broadway musical, "Rock of Ages," The Hollywood Reporter said.

The 1980s-themed film with the rock 'n' roll soundtrack is expected to start production in May. Singer Mary J. Blige recently signed up for a role in it.

The Hollywood Reporter Thursday quoted director Adam Shankman as calling Hough "nothing short of a miracle" during the audition process.

"It was a star-is-born moment," he said. "It was bigger than how I felt when I put Zac (Efron) in 'Hairspray.'"

Hough, a singer and dancer who is famous for her work on TV's "Dancing with the Stars," will soon be seen in the movie musical "Footloose."

The Broadway music features '80s hits by Journey, Bon Jovi and Pat Benatar, among others.