With filming only days away, the cast on J.J. Abrams’ Star Trek sequel continues to expand. Hot on the heels of the announcement of Doctor Who star Noel Clarke’s arrival comes news that Sherlock star Benedict Cumberbatch has also signed up for a role in the new 23rd Century odyssey.

According to Deadline, there is no word yet whether he’s playing a hero or a villain, although Variety and fansite Trekmovie.com suggest that he will be the film’s protagonist, a role that Edgar Ramirez auditioned for in December.

In addition to his work on the Trek film, Cumberbatch is also playing Smaug the Dragon for Peter Jackson’s Hobbit movies through motion capture alongside his Sherlock colleague Martin Freeman, and will voice the Necromancer in the films.

The Star Trek sequel opens on May 17, 2013.