Orlando Bloom is reportedly the top choice to play Joe Exotic in a movie based on the Tiger King series.

20th Century Fox are said to be in the early stages of developing a film about the life of the eccentric zookeeper, who has gained global notoriety in recent weeks following the release of the Netflix documentary.

According to The Sun, Lord of the Rings and Pirates of the Caribbean actor Bloom, 43, has already been earmarked for the lead role.

"All filming is on lockdown at the moment but the studios are exploring projects they can get going on as soon as possible and they think Tiger King is the perfect story," a source told the newspaper.

"The popularity of the series has been unprecedented and they think a film about it could be even more dramatic. The film could shed light on some details behind the scenes that were not shown in the Netflix series.

"Discussions about a movie have only just started but they believe the idea has legs, especially if they get a big star like Orlando on board. They think he could really bring Joe to life on screen."

Exotic - currently in jail for allegedly plotting to murder a rival - has recently said that his preferred choice for the role would be Brad Pitt.