After months of back and forth, denials and rumors, we now have confirmation that Marvel has found their lead for DOCTOR STRANGE. Deadline is reporting that Benedict Cumberbatch is in final negotiations to play the Sorceror Supreme for director Scott Derrickson.
Despite playing coy back at San Diego Comic Con, Cumberbatch was one of the actors consistently on Marvel’s shortlist that also included Jared Leto and Tom Hardy. Recently, Ryan Gosling met with the studio about DOCTOR STRANGE. Joaquin Phoenix was named as a finalist back during SDCC and those talks fell apart at the last minute. Cumberbatch apparently has final found a common ground for what is sure to be a long term contract.
Kevin Feige has long said that DOCTOR STRANGE is a top priority and with filming ready to roll next year, a lead needed to be in place. Rumors have been circulating that DOCTOR STRANGE will lead off the next phase of the Marvel Cinematic Universe which may see characters like Iron Man, Thor, and Captain America take a backseat to new characters or reduced appearances on screen. If these final talks get final confirmation then Benedict Cumberbatch will become one of the biggest gets for Marvel in a while.
Cumberbatch has already put his stamp on J.J. Abrams‘ rebooted STAR TREK universe, can he do the same for Marvel? Fans seem to agree he is a good choice for the movie. We will all find out when DOCTOR STRANGE hits theaters on July 8, 2016.
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