Cumberbatch signs up for 'Star Trek' role

LOS ANGELES, Jan. 5 (UPI) -- British actor Benedict Cumberbatch has signed on for a role in J.J. Abrams' upcoming "Star Trek" sequel, The Hollywood Reporter said.

Cumberbatch can now be seen in the films "War Horse" and "Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy," as well as the TV series "Sherlock." He last year won rave reviews for his performance in director Danny Boyle's West End play "Frankenstein."

The Hollywood Reporter said Abrams has divulged few details about the next installment in the "Star Trek" franchise, which he is penning with his longtime collaborators Damon Lindelof, Alex Kurtzman and Roberto Orci.

However, the entertainment industry trade newspaper said Cumberbatch will likely play the 3D movie's villain.

The stars of the 2009 blockbuster "Star Trek," including Chris Pine, Zoe Saldana and Zachary Quinto, are all returning for the sequel.