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The Hollywood Reporter has the digs today on a new cast member for Ridley Scott’s Robin Hood, which began shooting just last week in the U.K. A History of Violence and The Incredible Hulk star William Hurt will join the cast to play William Marshal, the Earl of Pembroke. The historical figure was one of the most powerful men in all of Europe and a servant to the Plantagenet kings who was once of the best jousters of his time. He was the first Earl of Pembroke, a title created by Richard Coeur du Lion (Richard the Lionheart) in 1189.

Another fun fact about the real William Marshal: he was present at the signing of the Magna Carta. There is no doubt in my mind that this little piece of history will end up nowhere near Ridley Scott’s movie, but I thought you might enjoy the history lesson either way. The film will also star Russell Crowe, Cate Blanchett, Mark Strong, Vanessa Redgrave and Kevin Durand. It is set for a May 14, 2010 release date.