'Doctor Strange': Chiwetel Ejiofor Confirms His Appearance, Excited To Work With Benedict Cumberbatch

Chiwetel Ejiofor has confirmed his presence in the Marvel’s upcoming film “Doctor Strange.” Sharing his excitement about the film, the 38-year-old actor said to Entertainment Weekly that he is happy to be the part of the film.

“I am doing Doctor Strange, and I’m incredibly excited about it. That’s all I say,” he said. The Oscar nominee did not reveal any details about his role, but said he is looking forward to work with Benedict Cumberbatch with whom he has previously worked in “12-Years a Slave.”

“He’s a good friend of mine. So, it’s gonna be fun. And Tilda Swinton — I haven’t worked with her, but I’m excited to work with her. She’s brilliant,” he said.

Ejiofor is rumored to play Doctor Strange’s (Cumberbatch) enemy Baron Mordo. According to Deadline, Ejiofor’s version of Mordo will have gray shades and he will not be a completely villainous character.

In the comics, Mordo is a Transylvanian nobleman, who is the student of the Ancient One. He devises a plan to kill his teacher but Doctor Strange stops him. Mordo is later exiled by the Ancient One. His abilities are similar to Doctor Strange, but he is particularly skilled at astral projection and hypnosis. The character first appeared in comic “Strange Tales” No. 1. Stan Lee and Steve Ditko have created the character.

Ejifor is known for his performance in 2008’s film “Othello” for which he earned numerous awards. He has also received an Academy and Golden Globe nomination for playing Solomon Nothup in “12 Years A Slave.”

Meanwhile, “Doctor Strange” is currently in its pre-production stage. Scott Derrickson is directing it from the screenplay by Thomas Dean Donnelly, Joshua Oppenheimer and Jon Spaihts. Swinton will play the Ancient One, while Rachel Mc Adams is also rumored to play an unknown role. The film will release on Oct. 28, 2016.