While Hugh Jackman was at Comic-Con to promote his upcoming boxing drama ‘Real Steel,’ he confirmed he’ll be appearing in the new musical adaptation of ‘Les Miserables’ and revealed who the new villain will be in ‘The Wolverine,’ ReelzChannel is reporting. In ‘Les Miserables,’ which is being helmed by ‘The King’s Speech’ Academy Award-winning director Tom Hooper, Jackman will portray ex-convict Jean Valjean. He also said that ‘The Wolverine’ villain will be Silver Samurai, which came as no surprise to ‘X-Men’ fans.

Jackman confirmed that ‘Les Miserables’ will begin shooting in February 2012. His character was portrayed by Liam Neeson in the 1998 non-musical film version of the popular play. The actor is the only confirmed cast member so far, but Russell Crowe and Paul Bettany are reportedly being considered for the role of Inspector Javert. Jackman also revealed that unlike the stage production, which is told entirely through song, some dialogue will be included in the film.

But before begins filming ‘Les Miserables,’ Jackman said he’ll be filming ‘The Wolverine,’ the stand-alone, non-sequel to his 2009 film ‘X-Men Origins: Wolverine.’ He said he’ll begin shooting ‘The Wolverine,’ which is being helmed by ‘3:10 to Yuma’s director James Mangold, in October 2011 in Japan. He added that he’s excited about the script Chris McQuarrie wrote. In the 1982 X-Men comic book mini-series, Silver Samurai is the half-brother of Mariko Yashida, Wolverine’s long lost love. Wolverine travels to Japan to confront Mariko, but he ends up fighting the Hand, a ninja clan.

Written by: Karen Benardello