Mel Gibson to play villain in Expendables 3?

Can the controversial star eclipse previous baddie Jean Claude Van Damme?

Hollywood's favourite prodigal son,  Mel Gibson, is reportedly in talks to join the cast of the upcoming 'Expendables 3'.



The follow-up to the popular action movies is to be directed by Patrick Hughes and written by Sylvester Stallone. 

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Sources claim that Gibson, who was once considered to direct an 'Expendables' movie, may be close to signing on as the villain in the next film.

Along with returning players  Stallone, Jason Statham, Terry Crews, Dolph Lundgren, and Randy Couture, newcomers Wesley Snipes, Nicolas Cage, Jackie Chan and Milla Jovovich have already signed on or are in talks for the upcoming instalment.

The first 'Expendables' film featured Eric Roberts and Steve Austin in villainous roles, the sequel brought in Jean Claude Van Damme.  Arguably Gibson has the pedigree  and notoriety to match them.

Last year in an interview, Gibson was asked whether he thought Hollywood was a “forgiving town,” the actor replied, “no.”

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But it looks like he's being given a second chance - yet again. Gibson will next be seen playing an evil role as a weapons dealer in Robert Rodriguez's 'Machete Kills'.

'Expendables 3' is due for release in cinemas on August 15, 2014.