Benedict Cumberbatch Was The Only Actor Marvel Seriously Considered For Doctor Strange

Director Scott Derrickson wanted Benedict Cumberbatch to play the Sorcerer Supreme so bad that after the actor initially turned the part down due to scheduling conflicts, he convinced Marvel to push back the production to accomodate Cumberbatch's schedule.

Speaking to Empire, Derrickson explained that Cumberbatch was the only actor they seriously considered casting for the Doctor Strange role. He met with other talented actors for the role, like Joaquin Phoenix, Jared Leto, and Ryan Gosling, but he said that Cumberbatch is the only one he really wanted.

Cumberbatch appreciated that Marvel and Derrickson returned to him. He said:

"I really did think I had to kiss it goodbye. If you can't jump on board when the ride's going past. That's usually it, so the hugest compliment they paid me was to come back to me. It motivated me to try to fulfill their faith in me."

That's good to know that the studio was willing to adjust for Cumberbatch to take on the role perfect for him. I couldn't imagine any other actor as the Sorcerer Supreme.

Doctor Strange will hit theaters on November 4. You can check out the new Empire covers for the film here.