Theo James to replace Kate Beckinsale in fifth 'Underworld' film

LOS ANGELES, Sept. 12 (UPI) -- Theo James will replace Kate Beckinsale as the star of the fifth Underworld film.

The 29-year-old actor previously portrayed the vampire David in Underworld: Awakening, the fourth and most recent installment in the series. David will be central character in the fifth movie, and Beckinsale will likely not appear as Selene. James will star alongside two new female leads instead.

Priest writer Cory Goodman will pen the script, with Lakeshore Entertainment's Tom Rosenberg and Gary Lucchesi as producers. The film series revolves around the conflict between vampires and lycans, a race of enhanced and immortal werewolves.

James most recently starred as Four in Divergent, and will return for sequels Insurgent, Allegiant: Part 1 and Allegiant: Part 2. The actor is also scheduled for London Fields, Franny and The Secret Scripture.