Movies
Rex Features
The actor was approached by Paul Reubens, who played the children's character on TV and in films until 1990, to help bring two scripts he has penned to the big screen.
Reubens said he had originally intended to play Herman himself, but also asked Depp if he would be interested in the part.
He told MTV that Depp had said: "Let me think about it.”
The pair appeared together in 2001 movie Blow and have a mutual friend in Tim Burton. The director helmed 1985's Pee-Wee Herman's Big Adventure and has worked with Depp on six films.
The new movies are scheduled for release in 2009.
More: Movies
Movie Reviews
'Extremely Loud & Incredibly Close' reviewTom Hanks features in a long and winding journey through New York after 9/11
At the Movies
Nicolas Cage viral: GIF snake attackGhost Rider: Spirit of Vengeance star Nicolas Cage demonstrates a snake attack.
Movies Interviews
Nicolas Cage 'Ghost Rider' interviewNicolas Cage on the Ghost Rider reboot, Con Air sequel and pet cobras...
Box Office Charts
'Chronicle' leads UK box officeSuperhero drama Chronicle leads the UK box office ahead of Journey 2.
