Nichols to Direct Gyllenhaal in Broadway Political Drama?

The New York Post's Michael Riedel reports that Jake Gyllenhaal, who starred in a previously announced industry reading of Beau Willimon's political drama Farragut North, is still attached to star in the upcoming Broadway production of the piece, directed by Mike Nichols (Spamalot, The Real Thing; film: Closer, The Birdcage).

Nichols takes over directorial reins from James Lapine, who helmed the reading. Oscar-nominee Gyllenhaal (Brokeback Mountain, Donnie Darko), if confirmed to star, would play "an idealistic young press secretary who works for a Howard Dean-like presidential contender."  Willimon worked on Dean's 2004 campaign. The production will open next fall, around the time of the 2008 election. 

Matt Damon and George Clooney have reportedly purchased the film rights to Farragut North.  With the winter opening of David Mamet's November, starring Nathan Lane and Laurie Metcalf, Broadway will apparently be the site of two star-studded presidential dramas this season. Nichols will also direct a Broadway revival of Clifford Odets' The Country Girl.

Photo of Jake Gyllenhaal by Retna Ltd.