Paul Bettany signs up for 'The Secret Life of Bees'

Washington, Jan 10 : Hollywood actor Paul Bettany will be playing a role of a widower in 'The Secret Life of Bees', a drama based on the novel by Sue Monk Kidd.

The 36-year-old will play the character of T. Ray Owens, the father of the film's 14-year-old central character, Lily Owens, played by Dakota Fanning.

The Fox Searchlight's drama is being directed by Gina Prince-Bythewood, which begins shooting this week in North Carolina.

Bettany joins an ensemble cast that includes Queen Latifah, Jennifer Hudson, Alicia Keys, Sophie Okonedo and Tristan Wilds.

The film revolves around Lily and her friend Rosaleen, played by Jennifer Hudson, who flee their small town to escape their harsh upbringing and uncover the mysteries of Lily's late mother.

ANI