Fast & Furious fans get first look at Charlize Theron’s new ‘Fast 8’ character

The Fast & Furious franchise has wasted no time in showing off its high-profile new star, Charlize Theron. The official Twitter account today shared the first photo of the Oscar-winning actress in character, less than two months her casting was announced.

Related: Stream the Fast & Furious series online on Amazon Video

Although the image shows Theron with an assortment of firearms, the combination of her ponytail, Metallica T-shirt, and a motorcycle jacket doesn’t quite scream “lethal.” There just isn’t the same outward intimidation factor as she gave off with her tough Mad Max: Fury Road character, Imperator Furiosa. However, appearances are bound to be deceiving as Theron takes on the latest villain role — and perhaps being underestimated will be to her advantage.

“Our crew has faced former military, mercenaries & more. Now, they meet Cipher,” said the tweet that accompanied the photo.

Our crew has faced former military, mercenaries & more. Now they meet Cipher (@CharlizeAfrica). #F8 #FastFridays pic.twitter.com/3zEK35gPZD

— Fast & Furious (@FastFurious) May 20, 2016

It’s not much information to go on, but the implication seems to be that Theron’s Cipher is just as threatening as any of the bad guys the Fast & Furious gang has faced to this point. And there have been some sinister ones. Jason Statham’s rogue assassin Deckard Shaw definitely comes to mind.

Theron will be joined in Fast 8 by returning stars Vin Diesel, Dwayne Johnson, Michelle Rodriguez, and Tyrese Gibson, among others. Together, they form a mighty ensemble, making the franchise as star-studded as it is action-packed. New additions over the years, such as Johnson and Statham, have kept things interesting, and Theron does the same.

Fast 8 is set to be directed by F. Gary Gray, whose work includes The Italian Job remake, which also featured Theron, fast cars, and high stakes. Fast 8 is slated for release on April 14, 2017.