He may be the bad boy of white rap, but Eminem is set to wow fans of his music and acting career by starring in a new biopic of a British singing legend.

Real name Marshall Bruce Mathers III, the 35-year-old has been praised by poet Seamus Heaney for getting kids interested in lyrics and poetry and compared to Elvis Presley.

Now, following his critically acclaimed performances in 8 Mile and Da Hip Hop Witch, Eminem is set to take on his most challenging acting role to date.

He is reported to have signed up to play a young Elton John in an upcoming film about his life.

Eminem and Sir Elton appeared together at the 2001 Grammy Awards performing a version of the rapper's hit single Stan.

Sir Elton, life president of Watford Football Club, was a singing sensation in the 1970s, and Eminem is said to be excited at taking on his one-time collaborator's early hits.