Anne Hathaway Cast as Fantine in 'Les Misérables'

Anne Hathaway has nabbed the coveted role of Fantine in Universal Pictures' and Working Title Films' new production of "Les Misérables."

She joins co-stars Hugh Jackman and Russell Crowe in the project, which "The King's Speech" helmer Tom Hooper is directing. The film has been slotted for a Dec. 7, 2012 release.

Jackman has the role of Jean Valjean and Crowe will play Inspector Javert in the new adaptation of the classic Victor Hugo novel and stage play. William Nicholson ("Gladiator") has written the screenplay. Sir Cameron Mackintosh is producing with Tim Bevan, Eric Fellner and Debra Hayward of Working Title.

Universal execs Erik Baiers and Maradith Frenkel are overseeing for the studio.

Repped by CAA and Management 360, Hathaway is currently filming Warner Bros.' "The Dark Knight Rises" for a July release. She most recently starred in "One Day," "Love and Other Drugs" and "Alice in Wonderland."

– The Hollywood Reporter