LUKE CAGE: Marvel Confirms Alfre Woodard Will Play a Harlem Politician



In August a report came out citing that actor Alfre Woodard was being eyed by Marvel for the role of the drug lord Black Mariah, in LUKE CAGE. Today, Marvel has confirmed Woodard has indeed been cast in LUKE CAGE but as the Harlem politician Mariah Dillard.

Obviously, based on the first name, the assumption Woodard might be a corrupt politician who is also a criminal drug lord can easily be made. However, in Marvel's official press release this information was not disclosed.

Via Marvel's press release:

Woodard will play Mariah Dillard, a local Harlem politician--and cousin to recently announced Cornell “Cottonmouth” Stokes (Mahershala Ali)--who is looking to bring a new era of change to the streets she grew up on. Her personal life and professional career are thrown into turmoil by both Harlem's newest hero Luke Cage as well as her cousin Cottonmouth's nefarious acts. 
“Alfre has an incredible, unique, and intimidating presence on screen that makes her perfect as a leader of the Harlem community,” said Executive Producer/Head of Marvel Television, Jeph Loeb. “We couldn’t be more excited that an actress as celebrated and talented as Alfre has decided to join us on this adventure.”


LUKE CAGE has begun filming in NYC and will release in the 4th quarter of 2016.