"The audition process had nothing to do with Max and nothing to do with the story or the script. "We haven't really talked about it enough, because we've been in the deal," he explained. While Hardy has read the script (and, obviously, couldn't discuss any tightly guarded plot details), the actor revealed he hasn't yet had discussions with Miller about creating a fresh take on Max. I have to bring something entirely different and new to the stage." "I would have to pick up where Mel left off, but in all honesty, it would be ridiculous to pick up where Mel left off. "The Mad Max figure is a big figure, and I have to get my head around that," he told us. With those cautious sentiments registered, Hardy opened up about the tricky nature of taking over such a well-known role - a position not unlike the one Chris Pine found himself in earlier this year as he replaced William Shatner in the new "Star Trek." He added with a wary laugh, "And tomorrow it's taken away and given to Sam Worthington!" "He hasn't come out with it, so I couldn't tell you if I have. "George hasn't actually confirmed that," Hardy said about becoming Max. Recently, MTV News had a chance to chat with the man who will likely replace Mel in the next film, and Hardy spoke about the casting process, how he would approach taking the place of an icon and the fact that nothing - despite reports to the contrary - has been made official. Now, with a fourth "Mad Max" film in development, the question becomes: Can anyone possibly replace Gibson as the freak-fighting adventurer? "RocknRolla" star Tom Hardy is going to do his best.