Marvel has confirmed that British actor Benedict Cumberbatch will be playing Doctor Strange in director Scott Derrickson's upcoming 2016 film.

After months of rumors and speculation, 'Sherlock' actor Cumberbatch has been named as Marvel's Doctor Strange, bringing the character to life which is based on the original 1960 comic book series created by Steve Ditko and Stan Lee.

The confirmation came via a post made on the Marvel official website, claiming the Cumberbatch "has entered the world of the mystic arts" and will be joining Director Derrickson and writer Jon Spaihts.

Producer Kevin Feige said that it was in Cumberbatch that they found an actor "capable of great depth and sincerity" to tell the story of Doctor Stephen Strange. Stephen is a neurosurgeon who discovers the world of magic and alternate dimension after being in a tragic car accident.

Feige also said that Cumberbatch will be able to portray the "unique and compelling character" that is Doctor Strange.

Despite Marvel and Feige's confidence, Cumberbatch's casting may not go over well with fans, especially after the "Cumberbacklash" that occurred when the rumors first came about.

When Cumberbatch's casting was still a rumor, some fans already expressed their plans to boycott the film if he is confirmed for the role. A Twitter user even claimed that "the Cumbercrash of 2016 will be devastating," some demanded more racial diversity in casting and many more felt that he simply did not fit the role.

It remains to be seen if Cumberbatch will be able to win fans over as Marvel pushes ahead with him as their leading man for the release of 'Doctor Strange' set for Nov. 4, 2016.

Prior to Cumberbatch's casting, others who were reportedly in talks for the role include Joaquin Phoenix, Ryan Gosling, Jared Leto, Ethan Hawke, Justin Theroux and Keanu Reeves.

Aside from 'Doctor Strange', Cumberbatch's upcoming film is the Peter Jackson-helmed 'The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies'. Cumberbatch plays Smaug the Dragon and stars alongside 'Sherlock' co-star Martin Freeman who plays Bilbo Baggins.