After endless rumors, Marvel has officially announced on Thursday that "Sherlock" actor Benedict Cumberbatch will star in "Doctor Strange."
According to Marvel's website, the 38-year-old actor will star in the film about "neurosurgeon Doctor Stephen Strange who, after a horrific car accident, discovers the hidden world of magic and alternate dimensions."
"Stephen Strange's story requires an actor capable of great depth and sincerity," explains Producer Kevin Feige. "In 2016, Benedict will show audiences what makes Doctor Strange such a unique and compelling character."
The announcement was also made over Marvel's official Twitter account, "OFFICIAL: Benedict Cumberbatch to play #DoctorStrange, in theaters November 4, 2016."
OFFICIAL: Benedict Cumberbatch to play #DoctorStrange, in theaters November 4, 2016: https://t.co/p2QIRIWixn
— Marvel Entertainment (@Marvel) December 4, 2014
The British actor, who has stared in other major franchises with massive "geek" followings like "Star Trek Into Darkness" and "The Hobbit" series, has recently received awards buzz for his lead role as mathematician and logician Alan Turing in film, "The Imitation Game."
The internet has been ablaze with speculation on the film over the past few months. The
Huffington Post recalls how Cumberbatch's name was first rumored to be involved in the film back in June. After weeks, it seemed actor Joaquin Phoenix had it in the bag but later was believed to have been unable to reach an agreement. Cumberbatch's name resurfaced in October and the rest is history.
The film will be directed by Scott Derrickson ("Sinister") with the screenplay to be written by Jon Spaihts ("Prometheus").
According to CNet, the film has Marvel comic book origins and based on the statement of Marvel, seems to be staying true to the traditional plot originally created by Stan Lee and Steve Ditko.
Cumberbatch rose to fame with the BBC One series' "Sherlock," which is headed into its fourth season. The actor recently bagged the Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Miniseries or a Movie in 2014. Prior to this, he also won the BAFTA/LA Britannia Award for British Artist of the Year in 2013, noted Marvel.
"With "Doctor Strange," Cumberbatch is just the latest actor to join the bold Phase 3 of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, introducing new heroes and continuing the adventures of fan favorites across multiple films," continued the site.
"Doctor Strange" will be released in November 4, 2016.
