Stellan Skarsgard Returns For Thor 2

Yesterday was full of Captain America 2 news and Iron Man 3 updates, so it only makes sense that Thor 2 comes forward today, right?

First Showing has announced that Stellan Skarsgard will return to reprise his role as scientist Eric Selvig for another thunderous adventure. Skarsgard joins Chris Hemsworth, Natalie Portman, Tom Hiddleston, and Idris Elba, who have all been confirmed to reprise their roles.

Of course, we can’t forget the newcomers that have also been announced as well. Mads Mikkelsen has been picked to play Thor’s unannounced opposition in the upcoming sequel and while Josh Dallas has left the role of Fandral to focus on his TV show Once Upon A Time, an offer has already been put out to Chuck star Zachary Levi to replace him. Rumor has it Levi was the actual first choice, but had to decline due to scheduling conflicts.

Game of Thrones director Alan Taylor will take over directing duties for the sequel, while Don Payne and Robert Rodat will pen the script.

Honestly, this news is more comforting than surprising, as Thor‘s big name actors have all slowly confirmed their return.

I was actually quite impressed with the first film. Thor could have been the most boring Marvel origin story given his dense background, but Hemsworth and company really brought the golden god’s mythology to life. I’m pretty excited for the sequel and I can’t wait to see what Alan Taylor can accomplish with his entry into the franchise.