Stallone defends casting 50 cent in whitaker role

Hollywood tough guy Sylvester Stallone has defended his decision to cast rapper 50 Cent in his forthcoming movie The Expendables - after fans slammed the casting call in an online forum.

The Rocky veteran is currently shooting the all-star action film The Expendables in Brazil, which sees some of Tinsletown's most notorious action stars team up, including Jet Li, Mickey Rourke and Jason Statham.

Forest Whitaker was also slated to appear in the movie as Agent Will Sands, but was forced to drop out due to scheduling conflicts after shooting on the Stallone's film was pushed back.

Stallone approached 50 Cent to take on the role, but the decision has come under fire from film fans who suggest the star isn't a credible actor.

Now, the the star has taken to his forum, StalloneZone, to assure fans he will guide the hip-hop star through the role.

Stallone writes to the forum's administrator, "Please tell the loyal followers to be positive not negative in their feedback. I am not self-destructive. The anger of the casting of 50 Cent is understandable, but not fair.

"A player is only as good as his coach. If a man can communicate in one medium, he can communicate in another if his strengths are brought out and he has the support of well-wishers. So, trust me, the change of Forest Whitaker to 50 Cent AKA Curtis Jackson is a good one."