While this may be a bit of a niche category, Walton Goggins is clearly the best actor in the subset of performers that have yet to fully rise to the A-list but have consistently proven themselves in multiple genres of film and TV. He’s the type of actor that can be menacing in “Justified” and then make you laugh in “Vice Principals” or “The Righteous Gemstones.” And now, he’s out to kill Santa Claus in “Fatman.”
According to Deadline, Goggins has been added to the cast of the upcoming comedy “Fatman” as Skinnyman, a hitman hired by a 12-year-old boy to assassinate Santa Claus, who will be played by Mel Gibson. Last year, we reported that this film was in the works, with Seth Rogen going on social media to blast the choice of Gibson as jolly Saint Nick. Alas, filming is currently underway, and it would appear that “Fatman” is coming, whether we like it or not.
“Fatman” is directed by Eshom and Ian Nelms, aka The Nelms Brothers, who previously helmed the film “Small Town Crime.” Rough House Pictures, the production company behind “Vice Principals” and “The Righteous Gemstones,” is aboard as producers on this latest comedy venture.
Sure, Goggins is a known quantity, as he’s one of the few actors working today that can pretty much tackle any role put in front of him, but it’s the inclusion of Gibson as Santa Claus that is sure to ruffle a few feathers. Yes, the A-lister’s past transgressions date back years now, but for many film fans, the controversy still casts a shadow over every project he works on. It’s curious how the general public will accept him playing one of the most iconic children’s figures.
As mentioned, production on “Fatman” is underway, but the producers are still on the hunt for distribution, which means a release date has not been announced. However, it would stand to reason that we could be seeing this film just in time for the 2020 Holiday Season.