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Best known for his action packed blockbusters and enjoying a huge comeback to the silver screen Mickey Rourke’s next ambition is far detached from his usual roles. He plans to play Gareth Thomas, the world’s first openly gay rugby player and male athlete in any team sport.

Rourke, 57 got in touch with Thomas after hearing of his story, as a big rugby fan he has been interested in making a rugby film for some time. He contacted Thomas via a mutual friend in the Rugby League and invited him to the audience of the Jonathan Ross show on which he was a guest and invited him to meet over dinner afterwards.

The Hollywood heavyweight is no stranger to physical sports after his training for his role in ‘The Wrestler’ for which he won a Bafta and a Golden Globe. He is also a trained boxer and fought professionally during his break from acting in the 1990′s.

Thomas is said to be delighted and flattered by Rourke’s interest in his life. His career started at a local club at youth level, after a series of transfers he ended up at his home club Bridgend. He played for the Welsh capital Cardiff for three years before returning to captain his hometown to the Welsh Premier Division title in 2003. Debut for Wales in 1995 against Japan and set a record four tries against Italy in 1999. He retains the record for the most appearances for his country at 100.

In 2006, after a neck impact during a game, he collapsed at an interview later in the day with what appeared to be a stroke, he was rushed to hospital and it was discovered that he had ruptured an artery in his neck. Many feared this would cause his retirement but he resumed playing at the start of the 2006-07 season.

The Welsh international came out to the Daily Mail newspaper claiming he didn’t want to be known as a ‘gay rugby player’ and he was a rugby player first, and foremost a man. He has publically talked about how he hopes his decision helps younger athletes feel comfortable with their sexuality and that it will not put off any potential players from what is considered one of the most masculine sports in the world.

But don’t go thinking Rourke will don his rugby boots and rugby training shirts just yet as many have pointed out he is more than 20 years older than the rugby star.