Chiwetel Ejiofor Nearing Deal to Co-Star in Marvel’s ‘Doctor Strange’

Benedict Cumberbatch will star as the Sorceror Supreme in Scott Derrickson’s comic book movie

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Chiwetel Ejiofor is nearing a deal for a key role alongside his “12 Years a Slave” co-star Benedict Cumberbatch in Marvel’s “Doctor Strange,” multiple individuals familiar with the project have told TheWrap.

While it’s unclear which role Ejiofor is circling, an individual with knowledge of the project insisted it’s not the villain, who is believed to be Baron Mordo, and is more likely the Ancient One.

Scott Derrickson is directing from a script by Jon Spaihts, and Marvel’s Kevin Feige is producing the movie, which starts production this fall. Ejiofor is already turning down projects that shoot in the fall in order to block off his schedule.

Marvel will release “Doctor Strange” on Nov. 4, 2016.

Ejiofor earned an Oscar nomination for his performance in “12 Years a Slave.” He has “Z for Zachariah” premiering at Sundance this week and will soon be seen in John Hillcoat’s crime drama “Triple Nine.”

Ejiofor is currently filming Ridley Scott‘s “The Martian” before he segues to Billy Ray‘s “The Secret in Their Eyes.” He’s represented by CAA and attorney Robert S. Wallerstein.

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