As I’m sure we’ve all seen by now, Benedict Cumberbatch seems to be a contender for the Star Wars franchise reboot or whatever, which JJ Abrams will be spearheading. JJ and Cumby worked together on Star Trek Into Darkness, and as Cumby as promoted The Desolation of Smaug, he’s been fielding a lot of questions about Star Wars. Benedict always says something along the lines of “JJ knows my number, I hope he calls, I’d love to do it.”
But what if all of it was some kind of Cumberconspiracy!?!?! What if Disney – which will be doing Star Wars – really wants Benedict for one of their Marvel projects?!
For the past few months Star Trek Into Darkness, The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug and Sherlock actor Benedict Cumberbatch has been fielding more and more questions about a casting rumor about being in Star Wars Episode VII. The connection between Cumberbatch and director J.J. Abrams is a logical one, not to mention the fact Cumberbatch’s star is rising fast in the movie biz.
According to one of The Daily SuperHero’s insiders in Tinseltown, a rumor is circling through several inner circles stating that the buzz surrounding the Cumberbatch rumor of being in Star Wars Episode VII might be something that has been manufactured by Disney. This distraction is being done to help conceal what Disney really wants the actor for… and that’s to be in a future Marvel Studios film.
To clarify about this insider, this is the same source who (back in October 2012) told The Daily SuperHero that Marvel Studios was very interested in actor Bradley Cooper. This report went under-the-radar and was not noticed online due to The Daily SuperHero being a somewhat newer website. While the information provided back then about Cooper was vague, the info definitely became truth since Marvel Studios did have interest in the actor and cast him as the voice of Rocket Raccoon in Guardians of the Galaxy, this past summer.
Getting back to the point, the contact was once again vague in saying what Marvel Studios role Cumberbatch might be targeted for but there is definitely a tremendous amount of interest by the studio. If this is indeed true, it sounds like a very tricky maneuver by Disney and this is not out of the ordinary since it has been rumored that Disney and Marvel like to leak false info to throw off the media and misdirect fans.
Many fans have said they would love the actor to be cast as Doctor Strange but before you get too excited, take this all with a grain of salt. However, this is coming from a source who has been right in the past too.
Benedict also made a trip to Marvel Studios… last year, I think. Marvel posted photos of him hanging out and that was the beginning of the “what superhero/villain should he play?” rumors. Some said Ant Man. Some said Dr. Strange. If this is happening, the best choice is Dr. Strange, because Paul Rudd just came and stole Benedict’s Ant Man thunder! According to Variety, Rudd is “in early negotiations” to star in Ant-Man/Henry Pym. Which is interesting, for sure, but since I’m all about The Batch, I made this story all about The Batch. So, what do you think? Star Wars or Marvel? OR BOTH? And will it be Dr. Strange? If ever there was a character name which so completely worked for an actor, it’s “Dr. Strange” and “Benedict Cumberbatch.”
Photos courtesy of WENN.
I’d love to see Paul Rudd as Ant Man, interesting choice!
I think Marvel might be the better option but I could be biased because JJ was always more into Star Wars than Trek so he might do an infinitely better job with Wars. The last (first) three were such a mess with the exception of the last half of Revenge of the Sith with the creation of Vadar I don’t have much hope but I could be wrong.
I enjoyed Abram’s Treks for what they were, popcorn movies, and obviously Cumberbatch’s role in the second but I could also see where the flaws were.
I’d rather see him in something lighter, not a typical Aniston Rom-Com *shudder* but something with an element of comedy such as Starter for 10 but with him as male lead.
Yes! He would be Perfect as Dr. Strange!!! I don’t know about Paul Rudd as Ant-Man…
But *why*?!??? Someone please tell me why BC would be awesome as Dr Strange??
(Remember what I know is next to nothing about this character)
He’s a macabre, sort of twisted otherworldly type character. He’s basically the world’s master of magic and has always been, well, strange. I can see why people would think BC would be good.
But then, I’ve never thought Dr. Strange would be a good character for a movie.
Thanks. I’ll have to read up some.
Any recommendations? (Open to anyone)
Agree, WendyNerd. I could see Dr Strange as a supporting character in Spiderman, or as part of some ensemble cast, but not a stand alone movie.
Ugh, go Marvel Benedict. I have a bad feeling about new Star Wars. I loved Abrams first Star Trek, liked the second one…but this Star Wars just seems rushed and off. It’s being done to meet a shareholder deadline. I hate seeing the original trilogy become part of something less special.
Plus there are two other directors bringing out outer space movies in the next few years; James Cameron and Christopher Nolan. Good luck JJ! 😉
I lost my love for Star Wars with the newer three movies. You can’t beat the original trilogy and it has stood the test of time beautifully. They need to nail the new Star Wars movie to get the fans back. Benedict could be taking a huge gamble with this one.
That said I think Marvel have butchered the tale of Thor (Loki is supposed to be an easy-to-hate character that gets the torturous death he deserves in the end whilst Thor shines on as the hero). I know the legend of Thor is not owned by Marvel but man they have ruined it by accidentally casting a puppy as Loki (now no one wants him to be killed).
I’m not sure which role Benedict should do given I hate the new Star Wars franchise and have doubts about Marvel’s ability to stick to the characters. Will have to go make myself a cup of tea whilst I contemplate it…
JJ has turned me off his own work. All dazzle dazzle and completely without much substance.
I just want Paul Rudd and Benedict Cumberbatch to appear together in the same movie so I can sit in blissed-out awe for a full two hours, with my jaw hanging open and my eyes glazed over. I think I’d have to leave my husband at home for that one.
Like Benedict needs the moniker of Dr. Strange too…
*sigh*
Although to be honest, I knowing NOTHING about Dr. Strange at all. Interesting character?
I’m inclined to agree, as I said above. Out of the two I would lean towards Marvel but I’d rather he do something different to either
Very cool actually. Actual superpowers and a bit of an anti-hero. Ant Man has cool powers but he’s not nearly as interesting. I think Rudd can do a good job, but Strange would definitely be more fun.
Wait… His name would be Dr Strange and he is NOT the baddie??? Ha ha ha ha *wipes tears from eyes*. I would have walked out of that movie very confused I think!
Care to elaborate?
*ahem*
*looks embarrassed*
Dearest Squirrel. Tulip Garden and I are in need of some assistance. Well, your assistance to be exact. I do believe its on Brad’s b-day post.
Sorry to bother the rest of you.
*waves leaves in apology*
Hi LadySlippers. I’ve missed you these last couple of days!
I just thought Dr Strange sounded like a baddies name. I am not familiar with Marvel characters to be honest and Iron Man 3 was the first one I saw on the big screen, so I’m a little late into the whole Marvel franchise thing.
I would have spent the whole movie thinking “Dr Strange is going to turn around and kill one of the Avengers any second now”. My bad…
Oh, and I see a massive Marvel finale with all the baddies (yes, even the “thought you killed me twice but you didn’t” Loki) facing off with all the Avengers for the mother of all battles. If they are smart, everyone will die and that will be the perfect end to the entire Marvel franchise!
Heading to BPitt post now!
Oh Squirrel I do understand — a superhero with the name of Dr Strange sounds like an oxymoron. Lol
Correction: It’s in Babykin’s post.
Lol
Jumping on the Marvel bandwagon is such a boring career move.
Seriously! Sometimes I feel like I’m the only one who’s getting a bit sick of MarvelMarvelMarvelMarvel all the time. Don’t get me wrong, I love Iron Man / Robert Downey Jr, and the Avengers was fun, but not every freaking Marvel character needs their own movie.
If Cumberbatch is smart he’ll say no to them, otherwise he’ll be stuck in the Dr Strange role forever (assuming the movie is a hit, ofc).
Eh, I don’t know. These movies seem to make a ton of money, and I’m sure the talent gets a cut of ticket sales, merchandising, etc. If I were an actor, I wouldn’t mind doing the occasional film that nets me a huge paycheck, especially if it means I am part of a franchise and will be in a few big films down the road.
Besides, this is Cumby we’re talking about. I think he brings a lot to his roles and make it a good film.
These are great “stocking filler” movies. That is to say, they are light and fluffy and full of so much CGI I’m surprised they even bother casting real people into roles BUT they are fun to watch. There is nothing wrong with having a Marvel/Disney film or two listed on your CV, so long as you are still taking the time to hunt out those juicier and more meaningful roles too. I think Benedict will always hunt for the meaningful roles as he has shown he can do such a wide range of characters and would get bored very quickly.
I love RDJ’s Iron Man role, but he is forever stuck with it and hasn’t done a lot of meaningful stuff in recent years. Marvel have him so committed to their franchise (at least six movies, and yes the money is good, but there is no variety to his role…boring for RDJ I’m sure).
Errrr, the fans do realize that the more big roles Benedict gets, the more likely he will walk away from his Sherlock character due to time constraints. Its a double-edged sword I’m afraid…
First, I love me some Sherlock and if Strange comes between me and Sherlock. Well, I ain’t putting up with that crap! Lol
Second, I think what kills many of these comic film adaptations is piss poor writing and equally horrible directing. I think too many studios rest their laurels on a good character and then fail to give the film a proper foundation of fantastic: writing, directing, and producing. Film studios — put your money where your mouth is and get back to good storytelling.
And *wags finger* I repeat, this orchid will be plenty mad if Strange is meant to replace Sherlock…
Doctor Strange is a fruity wizard, right? Snigger.
(ETA British fruity, geezers, British).
Fruity as they come, dear Sixer!
Yes! He would be perfect. Dr. Strange is my favorite– I read those comics all through my childhood and particularly love what Neil Gaiman did with him in 1602– and if they cast Cumby…. Poor TommyAnnE will be sobbing into his pillow.
I usually think actors shouldn’t be involved in too many franchises (even though it’s only a voice acting job he’s still promoting the Hobbit so he’s going to be associated with it), but as his big leading role flopped, he should go for it. Marvel has done pretty well with making movie stars – they brought RDJ’s career back from the dead, made Hemsworth famous, and gave ScarJo a lot of buzz too.
I finally get his appeal. He’s no Alan Rickman, but when I saw an episode of Sherlock the other night, I found myself wanting to do some very naughty things to him.
Welcome aboard!!
There’s no going back now…
Thanks Lindy! I’ll happily take my place at the back of the line behind y’all, so long as I get a little slice.
Uh-oh. Another one over the wall……;-}
Hmmmmm… I think we should tighten the acceptance policy…
😉
Hmmmmm
*fingers drumming*
You’re gonna have to show some consistant love before I open my petals to just anyone….
😉
@ Lady, lol, right! I’ve been reading Celebitchy for almost 2 years now & am just starting to get on the Cumby train. As long as I’m first (or second or, hell, even in the top five) line for Alan Rickman, I’ll settle for Cumby Crumbs!
See the bonus with the Fabulous Benedict is he’s single *and* has a spot on imitation of Alan Rickman. So by all means, Rickman is all yours. And I’ll let you look fondly at BC through the glass.
😉
Thanks ladies! Glad we could come to an understanding. Tis the season for giving after all! 😉
Based on the article, I’m confused as to how the Dr. Strange connection is made… because ‘many fans have said they would love the actor to be cast as Doctor Strange?’ Is Marvel actively working on a Dr. Strange movie? I am afraid to poke around on the internet for anything Cumby related for fear of Sherlock spoilers. 🙂
I know! I’m the same although I don’t have a Tumblr (I do look at some of the Cumby related ones for pics and interviews but all have agreed no spoilers) and my Twitter is not used that often so it seems that you have to really go looking. I think all press and official media have 100% respected the “no spoilers” thing, plus the whole Caitlin Moran thing took most of the attention haha.
Ugh, I’m off tumblr entirely until I have access to the episodes–I tried to spoiler-proof myself, but I still saw a couple of new photos/screenshots in the days after the preview so I swore off it entirely. Now I’m relying on Kaiser for all my Cumbernews needs!
Oh, he’d be a good Dr. Strange. If I weren’t pretty sure most DC superhero movies would suck (pains me because I’m a longtime DC fan), though, my number one role for him is Martian Manhunter.
Besides, put my baby David Tennant in some of these movies… Cumby and Hiddles shouldn’t have all the British cheekbone roles 😉
Oh, I couldn’t agree more. David Tennant could be all over the place & you won’t hear any complaints from me. He has the most wonderful comic timing & I think his role as Peter Vincent in “Fright Night” stole the whole movie. Let’s have some new cheekbones!
Oh my god. Could we get a movie with Cumby, Hiddles, AND David? I’d really never need to watch anything else for the rest of my life. 😉
The world might just explode. Or the Internet would. Or I would.
I’m not feeling him as Dr. Strange… I think I would rather see him in Star Wars.
And I agree with someone who said that every Marvel character doesn’t need their own movie. I like it that Marvel has been making good comic book movies, but I feel like I’m being hit over the head with all of the potential ones that are in the works. I’m not sure if we really need an Ant-Man movie… he’s one of the least appealing Avengers… but we are getting one anyway… rrrrr.
I don’t want my beloved Cumberbatch to become too mainstream, that’s all. I kind of like it that I’m a part of a niche group of people who like him. I just feel like too much fame will warp his wonderfulness and turn him into some alcoholic, womanizing douchebag.
Gosh. I reeeeeally don’t want that to happen.
The thing about it is that Tom Hiddleston was in Marvel and I still don’t completely consider him mainstream.
About Cumby:
Hun, he has Emmy and Golden Globe nominations. That is pretty darn mainstream.
I’m talking bigger than that…
I think Cumby is amazing but I do get a little nervous with this.
I get a bad feeling about Abrams doing Star Wars and I say that as a HUGE Star Wars fan. I just can’t with how he runs stuff into the ground and the goddamn lens flare and ugh.
Benedict as Dr Strange…hmmmm. It looks like the only reason that’s being said, aside from the visit to Marvel, is because he has a long face like Dr Strange. And that’s it.
It’s almost too perfect – the above illustration looks like Cumby with a goatee.
I’m with you in the JJ hesitation….
I will confess from the start that I know absolutely nothing about Dr. Strange or Ant-Man. But I have been hearing these rumors about Cumby for both of these roles for almost two years.
Just based on the names, I kind of like the idea of Cumby as Dr. Strange, but I don’t really care if he does any comic book characters.
But I must say this: I’m surprised any actor would want to take on the role of Ant-Man, & have that on their CV. It’s the name! Ick.
Cumby’s name was thrown around 4 projects….first was Ant-man which is done now as Paul Rudd is playing him (I am glad cz I don’t want to see Cumby wearing an absurd helmet).
Second was Dr.Strange again it’s cz fanboys have been casting him as the perfect Strange because this superhero is a magician with great intellect…so hmm I can see Cumby pulling this off.
Third was Star Wars rumours which are not stopping until this article. So lets see where this goes.
Fourth is Dream in Neil Gaiman’s Sandman movie adaptation. It was reported two days back that JGL is playing Dream and directing too but he cleared it on twitter that so far he has only signed on as a producer.
When Neil was asked whom he’ll pick for dream couple of weeks back he said Cumby or Hiddles. Cumby is the perfect choice for Sandman cz he literally looks like “Dream” with those high cheekbones, long face, beady eyes….like he walked out of that comic book lol.
As a fan I would love it if he picks Dream because its such an interesting character…a guy who controls dreams of humans. Plus Batch looks like him completely in terms of facial structures…all he’ll need is black hair to complete the look.
He’d be a great Morpheus.
Or he could be Destiny, with that voice
YES to Dream. perfect casting.
BC is ever so hot.
I saw Smaug this week. It is awwwwwwesooooooome. Ben did some AMAZING work.