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Eliza Dushku has been cast as the lead in Fox's untitled John Feldman drama pilot for director Phillip Noyce, while the WB Network has tapped "Gilmore Girls" co-star Jared Padalecki for the title role in its drama pilot "MacGyver."

The untitled John Feldman project, from 20th Century Fox TV and Original TV, centers on a graduate student (Dushku) who goes back in time to relive a day in order to prevent tragedies. Noyce was recently tapped to direct the pilot, replacing Rob Cohen, who was originally attached as director/executive producer.

The pilot's writer/executive producer Feldman said Dushku was the prototype for the character. "Onscreen and off, she is smart, strong, beautiful and embodies all the characteristics that are imperative to the character," he said.

Dushku returned to "Buffy the Vampire Slayer" this season, spurring rumors about a possible spinoff of the UPN drama built around her character Faith. The untitled John Feldman project hails from the same studio, 20th TV, which produces "Buffy."

Dushku most recently appeared in the feature "City by the Sea." Her feature credits also include "Bring It On" and "Soul Survivors." She recently signed with CAA and is managed by the Firm.