Patrick Dempsey Races Towards New Movie Role

Patrick Dempsey suits up during the 77th running of the Le Mans 24 Hour race at the Circuit des 24 Heures du Mans on June 13, 2009 in Le Mans, France Getty ImagesAccess Hollywood

LOS ANGELES, Calif. -- Patrick Dempsey is revving up his engine and headed out to play in the "Rain."

The "Grey's Anatomy" star will in the movie, "The Art of Racing in the Rain," based on the novel by Garth Stein, according to Variety.

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The story focuses on Enzo - a family dog with a very human soul and philosopher's mind, who evaluates his life through the lessons learned by his owner - racecar driver Denny Swift.

Dempsey will play Swift.

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The role shouldn't be too much of a reach for the actor, who is an accomplished professional racecar driver off-screen.

Dempsey, who last appeared on the big screen in the 2008's romantic comedy "Made of Honor," will next star in the ensemble romantic comedy "Valentine's Day," alongside Julia Roberts, Anne Hathaway, Jessica Alba, Jessica Biel, Jennifer Garner and many more.

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