Jon Spaihts, who is best known for his work on Ridley Scott‘s “Prometheus,” is nearing a deal to write “Doctor Strange” for Marvel, which recently hired Scott Derrickson to direct the superhero movie.
First introduced to comic book readers in 1963, the titular Steven Strange is a neurosurgeon who also doubled as the Sorcerer Supreme, acting as Earth’s primary protector against mysticism and sorcery. In preparation for the character’s introduction in Phase Three of Marvel’s cinematic universe, the name Steven Strange was first referenced in “Captain America: The Winter Soldier.”
See also: Marvel’s ‘Doctor Strange’ Lands ‘Sinister’ Director Scott Derrickson
Benedict Cumberbatch and Jared Leto are Marvel’s top targets to play Strange. Despite earlier reports, Tom Hardy is not expected to be available for the film.
Spaihts previously wrote the Emile Hirsch sci-fi movie “The Darkest Hour” and Keanu Reeves‘ long-gestating sci-fi movie “Passengers,” which remains in development at Focus Features.
Also read: ‘Prometheus 2’ Lands ‘Green Lantern’ Writer; May Feature Multiple Michael Fassbenders (Exclusive)
Spaihts, who is also working on “The Mummy” reboot for Universal, is repped by CAA and Circle of Confusion.
The news was first reported by Deadline.