Tessa Thompson joins 'Thor: Ragnarok,' Natalie Portman exits

LOS ANGELES, April 12 (UPI) -- Tessa Thompson has signed on to star alongside Chris Hemsworth in the Marvel superhero sequel, Thor: Ragnarok.

According to The Hollywood Reporter, Thompson is joining the film as series regular Natalie Portman is exiting the franchise after starring as lead love interest Jane Foster in 2011's Thor and 2013's Thor: The Dark World.

Thompson will be portraying a new love interest for the titular god of thunder, according to Deadline, with sources stating that the actress could have superpowers as well, setting her up to appear in future Marvel films.

Before Ragnarok begins filming in June, Thompson will appear opposite Portman in director Alex Garland's next film, Annihilation this spring.

The Creed star joins a growing cast for Ragnarok which includes returning stars Tom Hiddleston (Loki), Jamie Alexander (Sif) and series newcomers Cate Blanchett and Mark Ruffalo (The Hulk).

Directed by Taika Waititi, Thor: Ragnarok opens in theaters Nov. 3, 2017.