Gervais, however, would play the lead -- as much as one can be a lead opposite Kermit, Fozzie and Miss Piggy -- with his stature being compared to the role played by Jason Segel in the 2011 movie. But the nature of Gervais' character is unknown because the script is being kept secret. Also unclear is whether the part calls for singing, a requirement for the first movie (but here's hoping).

Gervais shot a cameo for the first movie, but the scene didn't make the final cut.

James Bobin, who directed the 2011 Muppets film, is back as helmer and co-wrote the screenplay with Nicholas Stoller. Segel will not return.

David Hoberman and Todd Lieberman, who produced The Muppets, are back to produce the sequel, which will shoot in London.

If a deal is made, the role would be Gervais’ first feature lead since the 2009 comedy The Invention of Lying.

He is repped by WME and United Agents.

Email: Borys.Kit@thr.com

Twitter: @Borys_Kit