Date: 29th January 2014

Benedict Cumberbatch out of running for Star Wars VII?


After being rumoured for a role in 'Star Wars: Episode VII' it looks as though Benedict Cumberbatch may be out of the running.

It's one of the biggest 'Star Wars' rumours we've seen since 'Episode VII' was first released - that Benedict Cumberbatch could be on board for a role in the sequel trilogy. But while the fans have been busy speculating, it looks as though Cumberbatch himself has been lining up his next film… and it could put him out of the running for 'Star Wars VII'.

According to Variety, the 37-year-old British actor has just signed on for his next project - an upcoming thriller called 'Blood Mountain'.

"Benedict Cumberbatch has been attached to star in the thriller 'Blood Mountain'," they explain, "which Altitude Film Sales will be shopping to international buyers at the European Film Market in Berlin."

But why does this put him out of the running for 'Star Wars VII'?

"Principal photography is slated to begin in April in Morocco."

And according to recent interview with J.J. Abrams, 'Star Wars: Episode VII' is due to begin filming as early as May 2014. Of course, this would place the two films shooting schedules in a direct clash… but could Cumberbatch juggle the responsibilities and appear in both?

For one thing, it depends on the size of his role in either film. A smaller role on one or the other could allow the 'Star Trek' star to flit between the two. But for now, there are almost no details about his involvement in either film.

Source: Press Release