This is quite possibly a thing that is happening.

Via [ScreenCrush](http://screencrush.com/star-wars-episode-7-benedict-cumberbatch/):

> With filming on ‘Star Wars: Episode 7‘ scheduled to begin in just about four months, casting on the new movie is well underway. And, after many rumors and much conjecture, we’ve got one more rumor to add to the pile. Director J.J. Abrams, who likes to return to work with some of the same actors, has brought a friend from the ‘Star Trek’ universe with him: Benedict Cumberbatch is rumored to star in ‘Star Wars: Episode 7.’

> While both Zachary Quinto and Simon Pegg both said they had no desire to join ‘Star Trek’ director J.J. Abrams on ‘Star Wars: Episode 7,’ Cumberbatch had previously said he’d be “happy” to join the new ‘Star Wars‘ film if asked. And, asked he was — or so we hear. When contacted by ScreenCrush for a confirmation, Lucasfilm declined to comment.

> It’s unclear who Cumberbatch will play in the film, but he certainly has the presence of a Jedi.

Don’t get me wrong, I like Benedict Cumberbatch as much as the next guy, but I’ve no faith in the idea that Star Wars VII is going to be any good. I can’t say as I blame him for wanting in on the project –doesn’t everyone want to be in Star Wars?– nor I do fault him for taking roles with a big paycheque guaranteed, however after _Star Trek Into Darkness_ I’m worried that Star Wars VII is going to fucking suck.

Either way since this is a JJ Abrams production I doubt we’ll hear for sure that Cumberbatch is even in the movie until roughly the day after it is released in theatres. Fucking mystery box.