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  (Photo: Reuters/Jean-Paul Pelissier)
  Cast member Matthew McConaughey arrives on the red carpet for the screening of the film ''Mud'', in competition at the 65th Cannes Film Festival, May 26, 2012.

Matthew McConaughey has opened up about his role in "Magic Mike," the new movie that hits theaters Friday.

The dramatic comedy follows male strippers and their personal lives. Noting past roles where he appeared shirtless in films, McConaughey told MSNBC that he has "evolved" toward his role in his latest film.

"I've been rehearsing for 'Magic Mike' for years," added the 42-year-old actor. "It was time to move up and learn how to drop my trousers."

Directed by Oscar-winning Steven Soderbergh, the film is predicted to rake in the weekend's top earnings at the box office. Speaking about how he ended up portraying a male stripper, McConaughey spoke highly of Soderbergh, who has helmed films such as "Traffic" and "Erin Brockovich."

"First of all, it was Steven Soderbergh calling," said the "How to Lose A Guy in 10 Days" star.

"I've been a fan of his work for a very long time, so I knew it wasn't in typical hands. He pitched me the story and then pitched me the character, and I was immediately laughing. He said there was room to be loose with this character. It wasn't even written that I would be dancing," said McConaughey.

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The risqué new role is not the only big decision McConaughey has made this year. Earlier this month, the actor married his longtime girlfriend Camila Alves at their Austin, Texas home. He and the Brazilian model share two children together.

"Magic Mike" also stars Channing Tatum, "White Collar" actor Matt Bomer, and Joe Manganiello of "True Blood."

Tatum, who is well known for portraying the heartthrob in movies such as "The Vow," also spoke about his role as a male stripper in "Magic Mike."

"I'm not a very modest person anyway," said the actor and former real-life male stripper according to Philly News. "I grew up in Florida and in Florida you're always running around naked or you're in a swim suit, which is basically underwear. You just kinda get used to being naked."