Alfie Allen’s Iosef was the poor soul who killed John Wick’s dog, setting the retired hitman on a killing spree in search of retribution. Now it looks like Common is destined to make a similar mistake in John Wick 2. The Hollywood Reporter revealed that the rapper-actor will star opposite Keanu Reeves in the sequel to one of last year’s unexpected hits. The trade states he’ll play the film’s “chief villain,” described as “a head of security for a female crime lord.”

This marks another intriguing career move for Common, who became a recognizable face in the acting world with the AMC drama Hell on Wheels. He continued garnering roles in the Oscar-nominated Selma opposite David Oyelowo, the Liam Neeson actioner Run All Night, and the Entourage movie. Common will also feature in the third Barbershop and, more anticipated, the DC supervillain team-up Suicide Squad.

Many critics adored John Wick, which performed above expectations. Made on a $20 million budget, the film has grossed $78.7 million worldwide. Though the possibility of a sequel was teased, these numbers made it easier for Lionsgate to give the green light. Now, with audience expectations already high for the next round, Common could benefit greatly from this hype.

Plot details on John Wick 2 have not yet been officially released, but the film is scheduled to start shooting this week. Steve caught up with Reeves, who revealed some of the story elements.

I think we have a really good premise, and it’s an organic premise. It’s basically — to me there’s John Wick and then there’s John. You know, John is the married guy whose wife just died, and that five years of his life. Then there’s John Wick, who’s the mythical assassin. In this, John Wick’s past comes and infiltrates John’s life and John Wick, in a way, has to fight for John.

David Leitch and Chad Stahelski co-directed the first film, but as we previously reported, Leitch is working on The Coldest City with Charlize Theron and James McAvoy, so it’s up to Stakelski to man the helm solo. John Wick screenwriter Derek Kolstad is also set to return.