Marvel Officially Confirms Benedict Cumberbatch Will Play ‘Doctor Strange’

On Thursday, Marvel officially confirmed the rumored report from October that Benedict Cumberbatch will take on the title role in the upcoming film Doctor Strange.

“Stephen Strange’s story requires an actor capable of great depth and sincerity,” Kevin Feige, President of Marvel Studios and producer of Doctor Strange, said in a statement. “In 2016, Benedict will show audiences what makes Doctor Strange such a unique and compelling character.”

In the comics, Doctor Stephen Strange is a neurosurgeon whose hands are damaged in a car accident. He eventually goes on to become the Sorcerer Supreme after discovering magic  and utilizes his powers to protect Earth from mystical threats.

Scott Derrickson will direct the film, and Jon Spaihts will pen the screenplay. Doctor Strange is expected to hit theaters November 4, 2016 as part of phase three of the Marvel Cinematic Universe.