TNT eyes Jon Bernthal for 'Noir' pilot

Bernthal"The Walking Dead" star Jon Bernthal is at early conversations with TNT to star at that time drama pilot "L.A. Noir," shepherded by Frank Darabont.Sources near the situation stressed that discussions have barely begun and there's no certainty a deal can get together. Nevertheless it would mark a reunion for Bernthal and Darabont, who developed and professional produced the initial season of AMC's "Walking Dead" before parting ways while using show a year ago.TNT declined comment.In "L.A. Noir," Bernthal would play Joe Teague, the La cop at the center of the demonstrate that examines corruption inside the LAPD and ties between police and underworld figures inside the 19 forties and '50s. TNT greenlit the pilot captured (Daily Variety, Jan. 10). Darabont written the script, using the book by John Buntin, and may helm for TNT Original Prods. Michael P Luca and Elliott Webb professional produce with Darabont.Bernthal remains riding the momentum from his breakout role on "Walking Dead," through which he co-stars just like a small-town sheriff's deputy who becomes an innovator of kids from the zombie apocalypse. Another half in the show's impressive sophomore season bows Feb. 12.Bernthal also just wrapped Summit Entertainment's action-thriller "Snitch," opposite Dwayne Manley and Susan Sarandon.He's repped by WME, Burstein Co. and attorney Kim Stenton at Myman Greenspan.Cynthia Littleton brought with this report. Contact Rob Sneider at rob.sneider@variety.com