He sorta plays one in real life, so why not get paid for it. Super hot philanderer Eddie Cibrian has been tapped to play the lead role of lawyer Nick Dalton, a keyholder at the infamous Playboy club, for NBC’s pilot, “Playboy“. The role was originally supposed to go to Hellcat’s Jeff Hephner. Sources say Hephner lost the part when he wasn’t able to deliver during a table read, despite wowing on screen tests. Poor guy.

Cibrian who infamously left his wife for his “Northern Lights” co-star, country singer Leann Rimes last year, was one of the many actors who read for the part. I like Hephner, but I think hiring Cibrian as his replacement is a pretty good casting move. Cibrian can pull off shady and sleazy while looking hot with ease. He’s only got a couple of days to perfect it because the pilot is slated to begin filming in just a few days on March 15 in Chicago.

“Playboy” revolves around Nick Dalton who’s described as the ultimate playboy during the 1960s. With the iconic club as a backdrop, drama will follow Nick’s life along with a group of women working as bunnies at the NYC club. Joining Cibrian are Laura Benanti, Naturi Naughton and recently out lesbian, Amber Heard. At first glance, the show has a very “Mad Men” feel about it. Fittingly enough, Alan Taylor, who directed the pilot of the AMC hit show is also directing the NBC pilot.

I’ve always thought Cibrian was one cute mofo. Even when he was in that cheesy boy band, 3D, I’ve lusted after him. Now, that’s dedication. If you heard any of their songs, you know what I mean. Though he dabbled in music, he’s mostly known for his acting roles. Some of his bigger roles include stints on “The Young and the Restless”, “Baywatch Nights“, “Third Watch“, “Ugly Betty” and “CSI: Miami“. Rimes and him are engaged and plan on getting married soon.

Who do you think would make a better 60s playboy? Cibrian or Hephner? What are the chances you think NBC will pick up this pilot and put in on their 2011 Fall schedule? Post your thoughts below.

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