For months, fans the world over have been speculating who might be cast as the villainous Lex Luthor in the upcoming Superman/Batman film from Zack Snyder. Today, they found out, along with who will be playing the equally important role of Alfred Pennyworth, Bruce Wayne’s loyal butler.

Jesse Eisenberg, the star of Now You See Me, The Social Network and Zombieland, will embody Luthor. On the character and casting choice, director Zack Snyder said, “Lex Luthor is often considered the most notorious of Superman's rivals, his unsavory reputation preceding him since 1940. What's great about Lex is that he exists beyond the confines of the stereotypical nefarious villain. He's a complicated and sophisticated character whose intellect, wealth and prominence position him as one of the few mortals able to challenge the incredible might of Superman. Having Jesse in the role allows us to explore that interesting dynamic, and also take the character in some new and unexpected directions.”

Meanwhile, Jeremy Irons has been cast as Alfred Pennyworth, continuing the recent legacy of casting Oscar winners in the role. On Alfred, Snyder said, “As everyone knows, Alfred is Bruce Wayne's most trusted friend, ally and mentor, a noble guardian and father figure. He is an absolutely critical element in the intricate infrastructure that allows Bruce Wayne to transform himself into Batman. It is an honor to have such an amazingly seasoned and gifted actor as Jeremy taking on the important role of the man who mentors and guides the guarded and nearly impervious façade that encapsulates Bruce Wayne.”

More as it develops…