Star Trek 3 looking to add a Bryan Cranston-like villain

After a lackluster Star Trek Into Darkness, and J.J. Abrams departing the franchise and jumping ship to take over Star Wars, Star Trek 3 can use all the help it can get.

Star Trek 3 already got a new director in Justin Lin (Fast & Furious), and it was recently announced that Simon Pegg (who plays Scotty in the new films) will be co-writing the third film. You know what would help even more? A huge actor coming in to add even more star power to the already star-studded cast.

So when Film Divider reports that the new male villain is supposed to be Bryan Cranston-like, that gets us excited. In addition to that, Cranston has reportedly "had words with the studio about taking the role." It's uncertain who the villain is or whether Bryan Cranston is onboard, but someone with this acting resume is a welcome addition.

There are also plans to introduce at least three new major female characters — the captain of a Federation ship, the President of the United Federation of Planets, and Bones' ex-wife. Strong female characters are sorely needed in the franchise, especially after what they did to Carol Marcus in Into Darkness. The most interesting one for me is the female captain they're looking to cast. Lots of potential there.

Star Trek 3 is slated for a 2016 release.

Film Divider