After the Joss Whedon-directed The Avengers proved a hit with audiences, all eyes have been focused on Marvel for details on what fans can expect from the next Avengers movie. At Comic-Con this year Whedon revealed the title for the next movie: Avengers: Age of Ultron.

In the months that have followed, speculation has run rampant about how Ultron, a super-powerful megalomaniac robot, will be depicted on the big screen. Joss Whedon earlier this month revealed that Ultron’s powers in comic books will be scaled down for the movie, which is scheduled for a May 1, 2015 release. This week, the casting information for the infamous villain has been revealed.

Marvel studios announced that actor James Spader has been cast as Ultron in Avengers: Age of Ultron. It is unknown whether Spader will simply voice a fully-realized computer-generated Ultron, or whether the actor will have a greater role in the character’s performance. Spader is best-known for movies such as Stargate and Secretary, as well as network TV shows such as Boston Legal, The Practice, and The Office.

In addition to Ultron, it has been announced that Marvel heroes Scarlet Witch and Quicksilver will be joining the avengers in the sequel. Recent casting rumors pin younger Olsen sibling Elizabeth Olsen as the Scarlet Witch and Kick-Ass star Aaron Taylor-Johnson has been cast as Quicksilver.

(Image courtesy Marvel Comics)