'Doctor Strange' Update: Michael Stuhlbarg In Negotiations To Play Nicodemus West! Will He Be A Villain Or Ally To Benedict Cumberbatch?

Benedict Cumberbatch may have gained yet another 'Doctor Strange' co-star in Michael Stuhlbarg!

According to Variety, the 'Steve Jobs' star is currently in negotiations to play Dr. Nicodemus West in the upcoming Marvel flick. If a deal is made, Michael Stuhlbarg could star alongside Benedict Cumberbatch, Tilda Swinton, Chiwetel Ejiofor and Rachel McAdams.

But who is Dr. Nicodemus West? Is he a villain or will he be an ally to Stephen Strange?

In the Marvel comic book universe, Nicodemus West is a fan of Stephen Strange and was the surgeon who operated on the doctor after Strange's accident. The operation left Stephen Strange with severe nerve damage, making West feel guilty about not being able to save the doctor's hands. When Strange leaves for Kamar-Taj, Nicodemus follows him and also becomes a student of the Ancient One. However, Nicodemus West did not complete his training in the mystic arts and eventually abandons Stephen Strange.

Michael Stuhlbarg is best known for his portrayal of crime boss Arnold Rothstein in 'Boardwalk Empire.' The 47-year-old actor also won critical acclaim for his role as Larry Gopnik in the Coen Brothers film 'A Serious Man.' His most recent movies include the Bryan Cranston drama 'Trumbo' as well as 'Steve Jobs,' where he played computer scientist Andy Hertzfeld.

Although most of the roles of the 'Doctor Strange' cast members have already been revealed, it has not yet been announced which comic book character will be portrayed by Rachel McAdams. There were speculations that the 'Mean Girls' actress will be playing Stephen Strange's love interest, however there are also new theories suggesting that she will be Christine Palmer aka Night Nurse.

'Doctor Strange' will be directed by Scott Derrickson while Jon Spaihts will work on the screenplay. The film is scheduled for release on November 4, 2016.

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