Idris Elba up to play the villain in Star Trek 3

• Gary Green


• 26 Mar 2015

Now that’s a comfy fit: Idris Elba playing a villain. Which is what he’s purportedly up for in concern to Star Trek 3, which is due out next year. The film will be directed by Fast & Furious director Justin Lin and written by star Simon Pegg (who plays Scotty), and it’s important for pieces to fall into place in time for the release of Star Trek’s 50th Anniversary year; so far, Star Trek 3 has nabbed the returning cast members Chris Pine, Zachary Quinto, Zoe Saldana, Karl Urban, Anton Yelchin and Peg himself. Now all they need is a villain.

Rumour has it that Idris Elba, who’s forged a fantastic career for himself playing scene-stealing characters, will be that villain. He’s battled evil in its many guises, from his roles in Luther, Thor and Pacific Rim – perhaps it’s time he sided with the dark forces instead. But just who could Elba be playing? There’s no word as of yet, but expect news of his casting to be dropped sometime soon (and hopefully without Star Trek Into Darkness‘ pointless unveiling of Benedict Cumberbatch’s real identity).

Star Trek 3 will be released July 8, 2016.