Marvel’s Captain America: Civil War is shaping up to be a crowded kickoff to “Phase Three” of the studio’s cinematic universe, and now the project has added yet another notable actor to its already impressive cast.
Martin Freeman, best known for his starring roles in The Hobbit franchise and BBC’s hit series Sherlock, was officially added to the cast of Civil War this week. According to Marvel.com, the actor will play an unspecified role in the film that will mark his debut in the studio’s cinematic universe.
“From his roles as Bilbo Baggins and Doctor Watson to Tim in The Office, Martin’s range from the dramatic to the comedic has consistently impressed us,” said Marvel Studios president Kevin Feige in a statement accompanying the casting news. “We couldn’t be more honored or excited to have such a talented actor join the Marvel Cinematic Universe.”
While Freeman’s role in Civil War remains unknown, the long list of accolades he brings to the film is well established.
Freeman was awarded a Primetime Emmy last year for his performance in Sherlock, and also earned an additional Emmy nomination that year for his lead role in the critically acclaimed series Fargo. He also earned a Golden Globe nomination for Fargo, as well as another Emmy nomination in 2012 for Sherlock. He previously earned multiple nominations and awards from the prestigious British Academy of Film and Television Arts over the years for his roles in Sherlock and The Office, the British series that inspired the U.S. sitcom of the same name.
Set to follow the conclusion of “Phase Two” in this year’s Ant-Man, Captain America: Civil War pits hero against hero when the world’s governments attempt to regulate superhuman activity — a decision that causes a rift among the Avengers and forces them to side with either Iron Man or Captain America.
Captain America: Civil War is scheduled to hit both standard and IMAX theaters May 6, 2016.
