Nick Cannon hints at Richard Pryor role

Nick Cannon has sparked rumours he is to portray comedy icon Richard Pryor in a new project after dropping a number of hints on Instagram.com.

The rapper/actor shared a picture of Pryor online on Friday (27Jun14) with the caption, "I'm feeling his spirit. I hope y'all (sic) ready for the next level in my career. #GameChanger #Pryor (sic)."

After showing off a retro hairstyle and beard at the BET Awards on Sunday night (29Jun14), fans began commenting on Cannon's new look, and a photo comparison to Pryor appeared to hit home.

Cannon re-posted the shot with the caption "Now y'all (sic) get it!"

The America's Got Talent host continued to fuel the rumours on Monday night (30Jun14) by sharing a picture of Pryor smoking, and suggesting he is imitating the bad habit to get into character, writing, "Picking up smoking cigarettes for the next few months so forgive me if I smell like an ashtray. #KidsDontTryThis #CancerSticksSuck #AnythingForTheCraft #HopeIDontGetAddicted #LeftHandChainSmoking #ActorLife #NotAGame #Ncredible (sic)."

Cannon has not given any further details about the project. Director Lee Daniels has previously been attached to a potential biopic of the Brewster's Millions star, with Eddie Murphy and Michael B. Jordan rumoured to be in the running for the role.