[cucubelu]

Bryan Cranston is the new Lex Luthor, a report says.

The speculation was there, and now it appears to be official, with Cosmic Book News reporting that the star of "Breaking Bad" has inked a multiple-film deal to play Superman's arch-nemesis.

The contract calls for at least six "appearances" as Luthor, the website says.

The official announcement will be made once Cranston's AMC drama concludes its final season in the early Fall, the website said.

Cranston sent the nerd world abuzz a few weeks back when in an interview with Metro, he said he would be open to the role.

On playing the part of the mad scientist and super-genius, Cranston told Metro, "Give me a call. I like Lex Luthor. I think he's misunderstood. He's a lovable, sweet man."

After playing Walter White, chemistry teacher turned meth dealer who loses his hair due to cancer treatment, Cranston already has the look down pat.

And through his brutal deeds as White on "Breaking Bad," he has no problem being the bad guy.

This news comes on the shirttails of last week's controversial blockbuster — Ben Affleck will be the new Batman.

The new "Man of Steel" film, billed as Superman vs. Batman with Luthor mixed in hits theaters July 2015.

Source: http://www.nj.com/entertainment/index.ss..._says.html