Universal has confirmed they have the rights to the 1920's series of childhood books, Doctor Dolittle, and will be starring Robert Downey Jr.
The children's books, written by Hugh Lofting first appeared on television in 1967 in a musical directed by Doctor Dolittle. The music was not a big hit, but did recieve an Oscar for best picture and won for best original song and visual effects.
Eddie Murphy performed the same role in a film released in 1998.
"The Voyages of Doctor Dolittle," "The Story of Doctor Dolittle," and "Doctor Dolittle's Circus" all follow the eccentric Doctor John Dolittle, a former physical who lives with, and treats animals, claiming he can communicate with them!