Marvel’s live-action Luke Cage original series on Netflix has just added another villain.
Deadline is reporting that former Sons of Anarchy star Theo Rossi has signed on to Luke Cage in one of the leading roles. Rossi’s part is rumored to be Shades a.k.a. Alvarez, an adversary to Luke Cage from Marvel’s comic book universe. Marvel and Netflix have not confirmed that, but Rossi’s character is said to be “relentless and menacing, smooth and manipulative, street smart and controlling.”
Rossi won acclaim from fans and critics alike for his performance as Juan Carlos “Juice” Ortiz on Sons of Anarchy. He has also appeared on Lost, Bones, Grey’s Anatomy, and Alcatraz.
Also joining Rossi in Luke Cage is Rosario Dawson, who will reprise her role as Claire Temple on the series. In the Marvel Universe, Claire Temple was a love interest for Luke Cage. But in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, Dawson originated the role of Claire on Daredevil earlier this year. Dawson is also slated to appear in Marvel’s Jessica Jones series and the second season of Daredevil.
Related: Marvel Closes In on Alfre Woodard For The Luke Cage Netflix Series
Mike Colter will star as the title character in Luke Cage after debuting in the role during Jessica Jones. Alfre Woodard recently entered negotiations with Marvel to join Luke Cage as an adversary who is widely believed to be an updated version of Black Mariah.
With casting for Luke Cage now underway, it seems likely that production will begin soon. There is still no word on whom Marvel is looking to cast for Iron Fist, the star of the fourth Marvel Netflix original series before The Defenders brings them together for an eight part miniseries in 2017. However, it would make sense to debut Iron Fist duringt the Luke Cage series because of the strong friendship they share in the comics.
Luke Cage will debut on Netflix in 2016.
