Whatever your feelings on Saturday Night Fever, this will bring a chill to your heart: Simon Cowell is planning a remake of the 1977 movie, with Zac Efron in the frame to step into John Travolta's shoes as Tony Manero.

Cowell has apparently been locked in negotiations for several weeks with Robert Stigwood, who owns the rights to the screenplay. A source told the Sun: "Simon has been looking into buying the rights for years and opened discussions with Robert about the remake.

The insider then significantly explained: "Robert was keen to get some assurances the original wouldn't be completely butchered before he agreed to the deal. Simon has been drawing up a list of people he wants to get involved. When that meets Robert's expectations, the contracts will be signed."

Among the contenders to butcher reimagine the original soundtrack is hip-hop geeza Timbaland, who's previously worked with elfin Icelandic chanteuse Björk and middle class Brit po-facers Coldplay.

There's no indication as to who might pick up the role of Stephanie, but we reckon Susan Boyle could bring hitherto unexplored depths to the part, as well as doubtless satisfying Stigwood with vocal reworkings of Staying Alive and More Than A Woman. ®

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