Kate Mara, Clark Gregg join Iron Man 2

Casting for "Iron Man 2" continues, with Kate Mara and Clark Gregg being the most recent actors to join the sequel. It’s directed by Jon Favreau, who also helmed the first movie.

I’ve been a big fan of Mara’s for a while, and especially loved her role in "Shooter," opposite Mark Wahlberg. Her character in "Iron Man 2" is being kept under wraps for now (anyone heard anything?). Scarlett Johansson is playing Black Widow, and Gwyneth Paltrow is returning as Pepper Pots.

Gregg is reprising his role as Agent Phil Coulson of S.H.I.E.L.D. I’m guessing he might play a major role in "The Avengers," as well. That movie is coming up in 2012.

"Iron Man 2" is scheduled for release on May 7, 2010, and it can’t get here fast enough for me. I need more of Robert Downey, Jr. as the dashing Tony Stark, and it’ll be a blast seeing Mickey Rourke as Ivan/Whiplash. I’m sure those two have plenty to talk about on set, since both have battled demons and had major comebacks in recent years.

Image Credit: Shooter, © Paramount Pictures; Source: Hollywood Reporter