Debbie Allen's all-black, Broadway production of the Tennessee Williams play (turned classic Paul Newman/Elizabeth Taylor movie), Cat on a Hot Tin Roof, finally has a cast. LL Cool J was mentioned months ago as a contender for the role of Brick, an injured ex-football player who won't have sex with his wife, but, thankfully, that's not happening.

Terrence "T.P." Howard has been given the roll (ha! get it?). Although I'm not his biggest fan, at least he has Broadway-caliber acting chops. Other confirmed cast members are Phylicia Rashad, Giancarlo Esposito and James Earl Jones. The lead female role will either go to Anika Noni Rose or Kerry Washington. I'm sure you know who I'm rooting for. [NYDN]