Benedict Cumberbatch will steal Christmas as he takes on the voice of the Grinch for an all-new animated film, it has been confirmed.

Cumberbatch, 39, will lend his voice to the reclusive Dr Seuss villain in the Peter Candeland-directed film which will be “both modern and classic”.

Announcing the news at CinemaCon, Illumination Entertainment CEO Chris Meledandri said: “We were determined to make a [casting] choice that would not only define this version of The Grinch as absolutely singular, but most importantly, we were looking for a voice to express comedic wickedness while embodying vulnerability.

“It is that vulnerability that allows us to create a character that is not only highly entertaining, but also has an irresistible appeal.

Cumberbatch follows in the footsteps of Jim Carrey, who played the villainous green creature in the 2000 film How the Grinch Stole Christmas.

The Dr. Seuss story follows the Grinch as he attempts to steal Christmas from the residents of Whoville with the help of his hapless dog Max.

The news comes a day after fans were treated to the first look at Cumberbatch as Marvel's Doctor Strange.

The actor plays The Sorcerer Supreme alongside Tilda Swinton as his mentor in a film which features astral projections and journeys between different dimensions.

Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas will be released on November 2017.



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