Marlon Wayans — primarily known for his comedic roles in Wayans Bros.’ movies such as Dance Flick and White Chicks — is in advanced discussions to play iconic comedian Richard Pryor in the upcoming biopic Richard Pryor: Is it Something I Said, Entertainment Weekly has learned. Eddie Murphy was originally attached to star in the project –produced by Adam Sandler’s Happy Madison Prods. and Sony Pictures — but he dropped out over conflicts with Paramount Pictures.

Comedian Marlon Wayans appeared on The TODAY Show Wednesday, where he promoted his new film, G.I. Joe: The Rise of Cobra, in theaters this Friday.