Since before DRACULA UNTOLD came out, Universal has been laying the foundation for what would become their Universal Monsters Shared Universe. Well-known monsters like Dracula, the Mummy, the Invisible Man, and the Wolf Man would make up this universe, and would show up in each other’s respective films. It’s a strategy pioneered and popularized by Marvel, and while it definitely seems like a cash grab by the studio, it’s something that would actually be a good fit forthe material.

First up on their cache of films is a remake of THE MUMMY. With a potential April start date, we’re getting more and more details as the months go on. Currently, we do know that it will take place in the present day, and that it will star Tom Cruise either as a former soldier or a special forces soldier. Sofia Boutella (who broke out last year as the sword-legged badass in KINGSMAN) is set to co-star in a key role, though we don’t really know what that key role will entail.

Now THR is reporting that Jake Johnson has just joined the growing cast. Johnson is best known for his role as Nick in the comedy series NEW GIRL, as well as his part in last year’s JURASSIC WORLD, where he played Lowery, one of the men working in the control room (pictured above). According to the report, Johnson will be playing another military man, but more interestingly, his role is a part written specifically for him. Given the actor’s track record, it would make sense to infer that his role would be of the comedic relief nature.

THE MUMMY is set to be directed by Alex Kurtzman, and will be the first in a shared universe of films. Given how much this picture will have to prove to audiences up front, it’s no wonder they opted to get the likes of Tom Cruise in at the start.

What do you think of Jake Johnson joining the cast of the film? Let us know in the comments down below!

SOURCE: THR