Captain America – Chris Evans finally cast

Finally the longest casting saga in recent Hollywood history is over with Chris Evans becoming the red, white and blue defender of the land of the free, Captain America.

Evans, who previously suited up as Johnny Storm/The Human Torch in Marvel’s ill-fated Fantastic Four movies, was reportedly offered the contract on Friday but took the weekend to decide if another comic-book property was for him. It’s a big commitment for the star with the deal including at least 3 Captain America movies, as well as The Avengers, which is set to be released in 2012.

Competition for the role was intense with Evans beating out some up-and-coming stars including Tron Legacy new-boy Garrett Hedlund and The US Office‘s John Kransinksi. The Avengers movie will see Evans team up with Robert Downey Jr’s Iron Man and Chris Hemsworth’s Thor, whose own movie will be releases in May 2011, two months before the July 22nd release of the Cap.

With Hugo Weaving already locked in to play villain Red Skull the rumour mill can now start working overtime on who’ll play Evans’ love interest in the Joe Johnston directed flick.