Josh Duhamel and Julianne Hough Sign On To Star in Nicholas Sparks’ Film Adaptation of the Best-Selling Novel Safe Haven Relativity Media has closed deals with Josh Duhamel ( Transformers, Life As We Know It ) and Julianne Hough ( Rock of Ages, Footloose ) to star as the lead roles in its upcoming film adaptation of Safe Haven , based on the best-selling novel from internationally-known author Nicholas Sparks ( The Notebook, Dear John ), it was announced today by Relativity’s President Tucker Tooley. The film is targeted to start production next month in Southport, North Carolina with a February 8th, 2013 release date. Additional casting to be announced. Sparks said, “I’m thrilled that Josh and Julianne have agreed to come aboard Safe Haven —it’s hard to think of an actor better-suited to play the character of Alex than Josh, and Julianne will bring a combination of vulnerability and strength to the role of Katie. They are both such talented and charismatic individuals –