Rupert Grint 'excited' to play ski star Eddie the Eagle

Rupert Grint will play the role of cult ski jumper Eddie The Eagle in a new film

Harry Potter actor Rupert Grint says he's excited about playing 80s skiing star Eddie the Eagle in a new film.

The movie tells the story of Eddie The Eagle Edwards, a UK ski jumper who entered the 1988 Winter Olympics coming last in both the 70m and 90m events.

But despite his failure, Eddie gained worldwide fame, becoming a cult figure.

"He's an amazing guy and it's a great story as well. I'm really excited about it, it's a really good character and should be really fun," Grint said.

"I've never skied in my life so maybe that will be a good thing, and maybe not.

"What he did was amazing, when you see these jumps in real life, they're just terrifying.

"He was quite blind as well, so that probably helped him a bit," the 22-year-old added.

Alan Partridge star Steve Coogan had originally been earmarked for the role of Eddie The Eagle.