Early today, Popeater started reporting that (of all people) Eddie Murphy has been cast in the role of The Riddler. The character was played by funnyman Jim Carrey in the 1995 Batman film, and Carrey was soundly abused by critics for his efforts.

Britain’s The Sun broke the Murphy news and the story was quickly picked up elsewhere in the world. The newspaper further reported that Murphy would hit the screen in the role in 2010, and that the movie has a working title of Gotham. Murphy as The Riddler? Well, he is pretty funny. Sure, that could work. Right?

Wrong. MSNBC reports that Murphy will not be play the villain. His rep has stepped forward to deny the story first appearing in The Sun. “No one has talked to me about it ever - never.” One rumor connects Johnny Depp to The Riddler role instead.

Who will play The Riddler? Since those behind the Batman film say they haven’t even worked out the story for the film, it’s a little premature to assume the character will even make the final cut.