Following Jessica Chastain's announcement yesterday that she won't be joining the cast of Iron Man 3 comes word, via Variety, that Rebecca Hall (The Town, Everything Must Go) may take the part instead.

The role is said to be that of a scientist that is the intellectual equal of Robert Downey Jr.'s Tony Stark. Although it's not confirmed, it's possible that the part is Dr. Maya Hansen, a character responsible for the "Extremis" nanotechnology that is said to be a key part of the sequel's focus.

Written and directed by Shane Black (and co-written by Drew Pearce), Iron Man 3 stars Robert Downey Jr., Gwyneth Paltrow, Don Cheadle, Ben Kingsley and Guy Pearce and is set for release on May 3, 2013.

(Photo Credit: WENN.com)