Hollywood actor George Clooney is set to take the lead role in the forthcoming G.i .joe movie, according to reports.

The Oceans Eleven star has pipped actor Mark Wahlberg as favourite to star in the movie adaptation of the action TV series.

According to Moviehole.net, Clooney has abandoned his role in director Joe Carnahan's film White Jazz in favour of appearing as the action hero.

A source tells the website, "Rumour is that one of the reasons he (Clooney) walked away from White Jazz was not only doe to scheduling conflicts but also because he is looking for a blockbuster to star in."

"The word in the Hollywood grapevine is Clooney has been offered a role in G.i. Joe and it's the character of Duke."