Who is Jason Momoa? CONAN THE BARBARIAN, That's Who

I honestly have never heard of this guy before in my life. Lionsgate and Nu Image/Millennium Films have decided to cast Jason Momoa as Conan the Barbarian in their new reboot/remake, tentatively titled simply Conan. Platinum Dunes go-to director Marcus Nispel, helmer of such movies as Pathfinder and the Friday the 13th remake, is directing this film, which is set for a 2011 release.

Latino Review brings the news, and they confirm Venkman's report that Momoa was chosen from a list of three considered actors; Jared Padalecki (TV's "Supernatural") and Kellan Lutz (Twilight) were the other contenders. If Momoa's name isn't familiar to you, rest assured you're not alone. He's only appeared in two feature films, the biggest of which was 2004's Johnson Family Vacation, and it seems most of his work was split between TV's "Baywatch: Hawaii" and "Stargate: Atlantis." According to all reports, he wow'ed the execs at a recent meeting and has been director Nispel's first choice all along.

Even though I'm not a big fan of the character, series, or previous films (hmm...guess there's only one Conan for me), I have to admit that the Hawaiian-born Momoa certainly looks the part. I won't speculate as to his acting ability, but if anyone has seen him in anything before, sound off in the comments and let us know how you think he'll fare as the sword-wielding barbarian.

Buried in LR's coverage is one more tidbit: Mickey Rourke is rumored to play Conan's father in the film. They also mention if Rourke falls through, word has it that Avatar's Stephen Lang might take the role. We'll keep you up to date on future casting news as it arises.