The Boss's story is rumoured to be made into a film - but who could play him?

Considering what a musical icon he is, it was only a matter of time before Bruce Springsteen's story was told on the big screen.

A film about the making of his 1982 album 'Nebraska' is reportedly in the works, leading to feverish speculation on social media about who may be on the cards to play the New Jersey native.

Austin Butler has already been ruled out, according to rumours, because of his recent portrayal of Elvis.

Who could accurately portray The Boss on the silver screen? Here are five suggestions...

Okay, he's more 'pop star' than 'brooding rock god', but we reckon Harry Styles could a) grow a beard and b) has the charisma required to pull off a role like this. He's already proven his acting chops in the likes of 'Don't Worry Darling' and we know he can sing - he's certainly not the worst choice, although his casting would undoubtedly irk the purists.

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Maynooth's own Paul Mescal would undoubtedly make a fine young Springsteen; he's already a well-known music fan, has carved out quite a niche for himself in the indie film world, yet is a bona fide star. He can sing, too, as clips of himself singing with his musician sister Nell have proven. He has the brooding look down to a T; could he get the Jersey accent down, too?

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The physical remsemblance between Ben Affleck and Springsteen has been noted in the past, particularly in the former's younger years. However, he may well be too old for the role in the 'Nebraska' film already; The Boss was 32 when the album was recorded, while Affleck is already 51. Nothing a bit of make-up and de-ageing couldn't fix, though.

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A bit of a wildcard, for sure - but hear us out. The English actor has taken on a wide variety of roles and nailed them all, from 'X Men' to 'The Favourite' - and if you've seen 'Skins', you'll know he can sing, too. You're probably imagining the boyish, clean-shaven Hoult - but with a bit of stubble, his hair grown out and an acoustic guitar slung on his shoulder, he could really look the part.

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The American actor is best known for roles in 'Gossip Girl' and 'You', but Penn Badgley also has his own band, called MOTHXR. He also has previous form portraying a real-life musician on screen, playing the role of Jeff Buckley in the film 'Greetings from Tim Buckley'. His musical background, coupled with his smouldering looks, could make him a potentially good fit for Springsteen.