Yesterday, three major characters were reportedly added to the cast of Marvel’s Luke Cage. And while Marvel TV has yet to formally acknowledge those cast members, another major addition to the series has been revealed and officially confirmed. Mahershala Ali has joined Luke Cage as Cornell “Cottonmouth” Stokes, a modernized version of the character who was one of Cage’s first villains in the Marvel Universe. Although in the comics, he was simply called Cornell Cottonmouth.

The announcement describes Stokes as “a Harlem nightclub owner, [who] will become an unexpected foe in Luke’s life when Stokes’ criminal activities threaten Luke’s world.” Ali’s previous credits include House of Cards, Alphas, The 4400, and The Hunger Games films.

“Mahershala is an actor of extraordinary range and gravitas,” said Marvel Head of Television, Jeph Loeb, of the announcement. “As Cottonmouth he will really let loose. Luke Cage won’t know what hit him.”

Mike Colter will portray Luke Cage in the series after recurring in the same role on Marvel’s Jessica Jones later this year. Alfre Woodard is also confirmed for Luke Cage in a role that is rumored to be a new take on Black Mariah. Currently unconfirmed (but very likely to be officially announced soon) cast members include Theo Rossi as Shades (a.k.a. Alvarez), and Simone Missick as Misty Knight. Rosario Dawson will reprise her role as Claire Temple from the Daredevil and Jessica Jones series.

Luke Cage will premiere on Netflix in 2016.

Comic fans, how do you feel about Mahershala Ali as Cottonmouth? Share your thoughts in the comment section below!

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HT: Marvel.com
Image Credit: Marvel