Ray Winstone has revealed that he was worried about taking on The Sweeney because John Thaw and Dennis Waterman are 'icons'.
The actor is set to lead the cast of Nick Love's adaptation of the popular TV series as he takes on the role of Jack Regan - Ben Drew is set to play partner George Carter.
And he admits that once he realised that they were putting their own stamp on the movie and the characters then he was more comfortable.
Speaking to The Press Association the actor said: "That's a big thing I had to get over because John Thaw and Dennis Waterman are icons to our age group.
"But once I realised we weren't copying them and were making our own film, then it was alright."
And Winstone reveals that he has seen an early cut of the movie and he hopes that the film will introduce these characters to a new army of fans.
"I've seen a rough cut of the film. It's great! I love it.
"Little Benny is blinding in it, he's very good. He looks like he can kick a door down, and he can act. My generation has had its Sweeney, but he'll bring a new generation to it."
Winstone can be seen on the big screen at the moment in Snow White and the Huntsman in which he plays one of the dwarves.
The movie has been a huge success in America and has taken over $56 million in it's opening weekend to top the box office.
The Sweeney is released 12th September.
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