Jim Norton joins Broadway's 'Of Mice and Men'

NEW YORK (AP) — Jim Norton will join James Franco and Chris O'Dowd in the Broadway revival of "Of Mice and Men."

Producers said Monday that Norton, whose recent credits include "The Mystery of Edwin Drood" and a Tony Award-winning turn in "The Seafarer," will play aging ranch handyman Candy.

The story by John Steinbeck centers on big-dreaming George, played by Franco, and the mentally challenged Lennie, portrayed by O'Dowd. Former "Gossip Girl" star Leighton Meester will play a beautiful temptress.

The play, which starts performances March 19 at the Longacre Theatre, hasn't been seen on Broadway in 40 years. Tony Award winner Anna D. Shapiro will direct.

Norton is currently performing in Conor McPherson's "The Night Alive" at the Atlantic Theatre Company.