There isn't a comic book fan in the world that isn't waiting with bated breath for Christopher Nolan's sequel to The Dark Knight. While some may make the argument that it's the greatest superhero film of all time, it's undoubtedly the most successful. But production is set to start up in April and we still don't know any of the other players outside of the main cast, including Christian Bale, Michael Caine, Morgan Freeman and Gary Oldman. Now, that changes.

Deadline reports that Tom Hardy, who starred in Nolan's blockbuster Inception this past summer, has been cast in Batman 3. The report says that the part is a lead, though insiders will not confirm if it's the role of the villain (though it's the most logical answer). Thanks to his cool attitude and quick wit, Hardy gained many fans from Nolan's mind-bending adventure and is already set for two other major films including Mad Max: Fury Road and Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy (though the former recently got delayed until 2012).

Let the speculation begin, people! Who will he play? Is he hero or villain? The Riddler or Black Mask? Hell, is he the new romantic interest? Knowing Nolan's ability to keep a secret, it may be a while before we find out, but that doesn't mean we can't guess all we want.