EarSucker

According to Nikki Finke at Deadline Hollywood, new “it” boy Taylor Lautner has been tapped to play “Stretch Armstrong” in a new Universal movie based on the toy (above).

Deadline reports:

The studio is giving Stretch superhero powers in the new 3D franchise that is scheduled for release in 2012. Universal Pictures Chairman Adam Fogelson and Co-Chairman Donna Langley think Lautner is “the real deal” and are undaunted by all the other projects which Taylor also is launching, including the Max Steel franchise at Paramount and the 3rd and 4th installments of the Twilight Saga for Summit Entertainment, and other films.

Langley said, “In the past two years, Taylor has emerged as a real star at the global box office. He brings the perfect balance of energy and athleticism to the role of an unlikely superhero with a fantastic super power. We couldn’t be more pleased that he has agreed to be our Stretch.”

The movie is slated for a March 2012 release.