In the "Star Wars" universe, there are good guys and there are bad guys -- and Benicio del Toro might be one of the latter.



Variety reports that the Oscar winner is in talks to join "Star Wars: Episode VIII" as the movie's main villain. He would join "Star Wars: The Force Awakens" stars Daisy Ridley, John Boyega, and Oscar Isaac, who are all expected to reprise their roles in the final film of the new trilogy.



Adding a new big bad indicates that one or more of the villains from "Episode VII" don't make it — Adam Driver's Kylo Ren, Gwendolyn Christie's Captain Phasma, or Domhnall Gleeson's General Hux.



Director Rian Johnson seems to be going after a big name, as Variety also notes that he met with Joaquin Phoenix for the part. Del Toro is better known for his work in dark, gritty, independent dramas, but he also signaled an interest in major franchises with a brief appearance as the kooky Collector in Marvel's "Guardians of the Galaxy."



If the actor signs on, he'd film "Episode VIII" with the rest of the cast next year to be ready for a May 26, 2017 date. "Star Wars: The Force Awakens" opens Dec. 18.



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