The series preparing to celebrate its 50th anniversary next year, “Doctor Who” may be preparing for a special guest star from another Steven Moffat television series. Express.co.uk is reporting a rumor that “Sherlock” leading man Benedict Cumberbatch may be gearing up to play a new regeneration of the Doctor’s arch-foe, The Master.

First appearing in 1971’s “Terror of the Autons,” the Master, like the Doctor, is a Time Lord from the planet Gallifrey and, as such, the character can “regenerate” and has been played by quite a few actors over the years. Roger Delgado originated the role with Anthony Ainley in the part the longest. Most recently, John Simm played The Master in the 2007 series (which then featured David Tennant as the Doctor).

Cumberbatch recently appeared on the big screen in War Horse and Tinker, Tailor, Soldier, Spy and can, coming up, be seen in both The Hobbit and in J.J. Abram’s untitled Star Trek sequel.

“Doctor Who” will resume broadcast later this year with Matt Smith, Karen Gillan and Arthur Darvill all confirmed to return.

(Photo Credit: WENN.com)