(Cover) - EN Showbiz - Rihanna is set to play a villain in the latest instalment of The Fast and the Furious.

The singer will join Vin Diesel and The Rock for the sixth film in the popular rev-head franchise.

She is expected to begin filming next month in London. The role comes after her big screen debut in the recent action movie Battleship.

"Rihanna impressed with her acting debut in Battleship," a source told British newspaper The Sun.

"Writers think she'll be perfect for the role. Her character has plenty of bite and doesn't take any prisoners just like her in real life.

"It's a step up the ladder for her and could lead to bigger action roles."

Rihanna's character in Battleship also had a feisty nature. She played tough Petty Officer (GM2) Cora Raikes in the Peter Berg-directed sci-fi action film. The star's character was a weaponry expert and she enjoyed the challenge.

"I wanted to do something badass but I didn't imagine it would be grungy, like straight Navy soldier, no make-up," she told MTV of her expectations for her first movie role.

"I enjoyed it. We did training just before the shoot, speeding the boat, turning, learning how to shoot and handle the weapon, and two hours later we were shooting that scene." (C) Cover Media