Acclaimed filmmaker James Gunn announced via social media that Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 will finally start production. Gunn posted a picture alongside his cast, but there was an unexpected face in the crowd. 

It’s been a strange & long & at times challenging journey to get here, but the obstacles along the way have only made this moment more blissful. Back on set with my Guardians family for the first day of shooting #gotgvol3 pic.twitter.com/DrF8ZV8bvz

— James Gunn (@JamesGunn) November 8, 2021

Actor Chukwudi Iwuji appeared in the photo alongside co-stars Chris Pratt, Dave Bautista, Karen Gillan, Pom Klementieff, Zoe Saldaña, and newcomer, Will Poulter. Iwuji has previously worked with Gunn on his HBO Max series Peacemaker, and the filmmaker has decided to cast him for his next comic book film. 

Gunn confirmed the news of his casting with this tweet.

Chuk has indeed joined the cast. After working with him on #Peacemaker I wasn’t about to let go of one of the best actors I’ve ever worked with – so I gave him the role most every big name actor in Hollywood wanted. #TalentAboveAllElse https://t.co/ar2vYqRt5u

— James Gunn (@JamesGunn) November 8, 2021

Iwuji also took the time to express his gratitude and enthusiasm via his Instagram story:

“As an artist you hope to encounter a champion to open doors for you,”Iwuji wrote. “Thank you [James Gunn] for practically kicking the doors off the hinges. Let’s Play!!!”

Gunn confirmed via Twitter that it was indeed Iwuji alongside the cast, and claimed that the actor would be embarking on a role that “most every big name actor in Hollywood wanted,” ComicBook reports. Iwuji’s character is still unknown, given that the franchise is still keeping details from the public.

With production still ongoing, future details are likely to surface and perhaps new faces will continue to be announced. Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 is set for a May 23, 2023 release date, which will most likely be James Gunn’s final MCU film.