Atlanta rapper T.I. is in final negotiations to possibly co-star in Screen Gems' upcoming heist drama "Bone Deep," according to the film's Atlanta-based producer.

Will Packer, who soon will begin filming "Obsessed" in Los Angeles with Beyonce Knowles, says he is in the "final stages" of a deal to have T.I. join his "Bone Deep" cast. The film, which will star Matt Dillon and Idris Elba, involves a planned robbery that Packer has described as a kind of cross between "Heat" and "Ocean's Eleven."

"Bone Deep," tentatively set for 2009 release, could be filmed this fall. Atlanta is under consideration as a location, Packer says.

T.I., the multimillion-selling Grammy winner born Clifford Harris Jr., recently has been fulfilling obligations of at least 1,000 hours of community service following his guilty plea to three federal firearm violations charges.

T.I.'s last film was the Oscar-nominated "American Gangster" with Denzel Washington and Russell Crowe.

Back on the mike

A veteran member of the old 99X staff is back on the air. At least online at 99X.com and high-def radio where the former Atlanta radio station now exists. Midday DJ Steve Craig, a part of 99X since its inception, has resumed his familiar 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Monday-through-Friday shift at 99X.com and 99.7 HD2, following a two-month break.

In a statement sent to Buzz Central, Craig said: "I've always believed in 99X. It's been my life for 16 years and I'm excited to be a part of the next generation of 99X.COM. From media centers in their living room to mobile devices everyone and everything is online now. We're doing what we've always done best at 99X. Set the trends and stay ahead of evolution."

And no, we have no idea what "stay ahead of evolution" means either. ...

Heston tribute set

As anticipated, Atlanta-based Turner Classic Movies announced Monday that the basic cable channel will tear up its planned schedule this Friday in order to honor Charlton Heston, who died over the weekend at age 84.

On Friday, the network will present a 15-hour marathon of memorable Heston performances, including his Oscar-winning role in "Ben-Hur" (1959). Also featured will be two opportunities to watch an in-depth conversation between Heston and TCM host Robert Osborne in the TCM original special "Private Screenings: Charlton Heston."

In a statement sent to Buzz, Osborne reflected: "Charlton Heston was a towering man both in person and on screen. He was also one of the nicest, most courteous gentlemen I ever met. He will forever stand tall among those rare few we know as genuine Movie Stars." For those setting their TiVos, the marathon begins at 2:30 p.m. and runs through early Saturday. For a full line-up: www.tcm.com.

Overscene

Philadelphia Eagles linebacker Takeo Spikes and TLC member Tionne "T-Boz" Watkins dining at Two Urban Licks in Midtown. Spikes enjoyed the braised pork with macaroni and New York cheddar with pork jus while Watkins ordered the shrimp with andouille sausage, chile herb rice and saffron shellfish broth.

Former Atlanta Falcon Alge Crumpler at Stats downtown watching the North Carolina-Kansas basketball game. Also spotted at Stats: New York Mets third baseman David Wright sampling a pressed chicken sandwich, chicken nachos and tuna tataki and washing it down with Blue Moon brew. Atlanta Thrashers players Eric Boulton, Eric Perrin, Jim Slater and Chris Thorburn celebrating their 4-1 victory over the Tampa Bay Lightning with Southern hummus, barbecue candy cane ribs, chicken nachos and beers.

Married actors Tony Shalhoub of "Monk" and Brooke Adams of "Days of Heaven" taking in a performance of "Indulgences" at Dad's Garage Theatre Company in Inman Park.

CELEBRITY BIRTHDAYS

Comedian Shecky Greene is 82. Original Mouseketeer Darlene Gillespie is 67. Singer-actor John Schneider is 48. Singer Julian Lennon is 45. Rapper Biz Markie is 44. Actress Robin Wright Penn is 42. Actress Patricia Arquette is 40.

QUOTE OF THE DAY

"It was completely mutual. . . . We're both fine. . . . We broke up over text so . . . it's like 'peace out.' "

Singer Carrie Underwood discussing the method of ending her relationship with actor Chace Crawford

—- Contributing: Bob Longino and news services