James Wanhas recruited an OG action star to join the cast of the DC Extended Universe’sJustice Leaguefollow-up,Aquaman.Rocky IVandExpendablesstarDolph Lundgren,he of the strapping Slavic masculinity and secret genius,has joined the cast of the Atlantian King’s solo film as a rival aquatic monarch out for Aquaman’s blood.THRreports that Lundgren will play King Nereus from Mera’s home kingdom of Xebel, a fearsome warrior who claims Mera as his betrothed.
Jason Momoais starring as the title hero in his first solo film alongsideAmber Heardas Mera, Aquaman’s love interest and the object of Xebel’s affection, who will hopefully have more to do than play the pawn between two kings. Also onboard areWillem Dafoeas Aquaman’s royal science advisor, Nuidis Vulko, who will first appear inJustice League,Nicole Kidmanas Aquaman’s mother, andTemuera Morrisonas Aquaman’s father.
In the villain’s corner, we’ve already gotThe Get DownstarYahya Abdul-Mateenas the iconic Aquaman villain Black Manta and James Wan’s regular collaboratorPatrick Wilsonas Orm Marius, a.k.a. Ocean Master, Aquaman’s nefarious half-brother. That’s already two heavy hitting baddies from the Aquaman mythology, adding a third player threatens to be a significantly overstuffed film. Hopefully, they’re planning to use Wilson as a long-term player, planting the seeds of his shadowy ways before turning him into a full-blown baddie in future films.
Created by writerGeoff Johns, who’s currently Chief Creative Officer at DC Films, and artistPaul Pelletier, Nereus first appeared inAquaman #19during the New 52 run of DC Comics. He’s a relatively minor Aquaman villain, who teamed with the Dead King after Mera refused her betrothal as his bride and queen of Xebel.
Lundgren made his acting debut in the James Bond filmA View to Kill, but it’s his turn as the herculean antagonist Drago inRocky IVthat cemented his pop culture status. Lundgren dipped his toes in the comic book waters as Marvel’s Frank Castle in 1989’sThe Punisherand as a guest-starring villain on the DC TV showArrow.Recently, Lundgren has been maintaining a steady career in DTV actioners andExpendablesfilms.
Aquaman is eyeing a May production start in Australia and is scheduled to arrive in theaters June 10, 2025.
