Last month, Mike Colter was linked to the title role in Marvel’s “Luke Cage” series iin the same reports that eventually named Krysten Ritter as Jessica Jones. Now it looks like Colter officially has the role.
According to The Hollywood Reporter, Colter will portray Luke Cage in several episodes of “AKA Jessica Jones” before starring in a 13 episode “Luke Cage” series. With Colter onboard, Iron Fist is the only lead character remaining to be cast by Marvel and Netflix before his series launches after “Luke Cage.” Daredevil, Jessica Jones, Luke Cage and Iron Fist will then unite in “The Defenders,” an eight part miniseries.
Related: Marvel Makes It Official: Krysten Ritter Is Jessica Jones
As created by Archie Goodwin and John Romita, Sr. in 1972, Luke Cage was a wrongfully convicted prisoner who gained his super strength in prison experiments before operating as a “hero for hire.” Cage co-starred in the Power Man & Iron Fist comic book series before eventually rising to prominence as a member of the New Avengers.
Prior to being cast as Luke Cage, Colter was best known for his roles in “The Good Wife,” “The Following” and “Halo: Nightfall.” He has also appeared in “American Horror Story,” “Ringer,” Men in Black 3 and Salt.
“AKA Jessica Jones” expected to premiere in 2015 after “Daredevil.” That means “Luke Cage” will probably be held back for a 2016 release date on Netflix.
