Kurt Russell, star of movies like “Backdraft” and “Escape from New York,” will appear as the lead character in Quentin Tarantino’s upcoming horror movie, “Death Proof.”

Reuters reports that Russell will take on the role of Stunt Man Mike, for which actor Mickey Rourke was originally considered.

“I’ve always wanted to work with Kurt Russell,” said Tarantino at the Comic-Con International convention in San Diego on Saturday. “I think Stunt Man Mike is one of the best characters I’ve ever written.”

The film, which Tarantino plans to start making in a month, is one half of the “Grindhouse” double feature. Robert Rodriguez directed the other half, titled “Planet Terror.” That movie stars Rose McGowan.

The “Grindhouse” films, which will be shown one after the other with fake previews in between, are set to be released on April 6, 2007.

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