Former Vamp Michael Sheen transitions from Underworld to New Moon's Aro

Chris Weitz, director of "New Moon," told The Mail that he aggressively, and successfully pursued Michael Sheen to play the part of Aro, leader of the Volturi, in the upcoming flick.

‘Michael’s role is so important because he’s the head of all vampires,’ he said. ‘Aro is, on the surface, a very gracious and friendly vampire, but beneath that he is a tremendous threat.’

Sheen, 40, who made his name with uncannily realistic portrayals of well-known figures in Oscar-winning films The Queen, Frost/Nixon and The Damned United, will get his biggest pay cheque yet, a reported £5million, to star in New Moon. (That's pounds, US fans... not dollars)

Sheen also starred in the 2003 vampy flick, Underworld, with Kate Beckinsale, his baby's mama.

Thanks to CBA and Eyes of Amber for the heads-up, buttercups!