Malin Akerman: Taking Over For Lindsay Lohan Was 'So Awkward'

By Sarah Crow Posted Jan 14th 2011 02:27PM

'Watchmen' star Malin Akerman may have taken on a number of difficult roles during her Hollywood career, but none as awkward as her upcoming role in the Linda Lovelace biopic 'Inferno.'

Akerman, 32, took over the part of the late porn star at the end of 2010, while Lindsay Lohan, who was originally scheduled to play the 'Deep Throat' star, was receiving treatment for substance abuse.

Akerman told Fox 411 of the switch, "Of course [it was so awkward] but it will be a wonderful journey. ... [Lovelace] was a survivor. Unfortunately she's not with us anymore, but her life was really incredible and I am excited for that to come out."

The film's producer, Chris Hanley, told PEOPLE of his decision to swap actressess, "Lindsay had scheduling issues due to legal obligations ... For herself and her career in general it was really her decision to just focus on getting better psychologically."

As for Akerman, she's excited to tackle the challenging role. "I'm just trying to do all my research and really get the character right," she said. "I'm reading her book and I'm reading any kind of information that I can get my hands on."