Paul Rudd Is Marvel's 'Ant-Man'

Paul Rudd is about to join the Marvel Cinematic Universe, with TheWrap reporting that the actor is in early negotiations to play Hank Pym in Ant-Man. Rudd has been rumored to be the favorite for the role for months now, with his name previously coming up with Joseph Gordon-Levitt. With Gordon-Levitt now involved producing and possibly directing and starring in Warner Bros.' The Sandman adaption, Rudd appears to have won the role.

According to TheWrap, "in recent interviews to promote Anchorman 2, as well as his recent stint hosting Saturday Night Live, Rudd has appeared noticeably slimmer ... that’s because he’s training for the physical role of Ant-Man."

This is yet another fantastic yet unconventional casting move on Marvel's part. From the moment they picked Robert Downey Jr. to be Iron Man, the studio hasn't shied away from surprising fans with the actors taking on these iconic characters. Did anyone ever think that Parks and Recreation's Chris Pratt could be an action star? We haven't seen Guardians of the Galaxy yet, but the buzz surrounding Pratt and the movie is incredibly positive.

Ant-Man will be directed by Edgar Wright and kick off Phase Three of the Marvel Cinematic Universe on July 31, 2015. Back in October, there was a rumor that Rudd's I Love You, Man co-star Rashida Jones was the favorite to play Janet Van Dyne in Ant-Man. No word on that casting at the moment, but hopefully with Rudd locked in, the rest of the casting will fall into place.