Stephen Graham (PUBLIC ENEMIES) has been hired to play Capt. Jack Sparrow's sidekick in PIRATES OF THE CARIBBEAN: ON STRANGER TIDES, reports VARIETY. His character is named Scram, a Machiavellian pirate who sets out with Johnny Depp's Sparrow to find the fountain of youth. Cast also includes Penelope Cruz and Ian McShane.

Rob Marshall is directing. Terry Rossio and Ted Elliott wrote the screenplay. Jerry Bruckheimer is the producer.

Production begins in Hawai'i this month. Walt Disney Pictures has set May 20, 2011 as the film's release date.