Joaquin Phoenix in talks to portray The Joker in planned origin film

Feb. 9 (UPI) -- Joaquin Phoenix may potentially star as signature Batman villain The Joker in a planned origin film from producer Martin Scorsese and director Todd Phillips.

Phoenix is Phillips' top choice to star as the Clown Prince of Crime with the actor agreeing to take on the role after thinking it over, Variety reported, citing sources.

Phoenix is the second name attached to the role after Leonardo DiCaprio was said to be circling the part, Entertainment Weekly reported.

The Joker was last portrayed by Jared Leto in Suicide Squad -- part of Warner Bros.' DC extended universe -- which also includes films Man of Steel, Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice, Wonder Woman, Justice League and the forthcoming Aquaman.

The origin film will take place outside the extended universe and would help launch a new DC Comics banner at Warner Bros. that will allow the studio to tell unique comic book stories using different actors in the the title roles.

Leto is still expected to portray The Joker in a Suicide Squad sequel.