Anton Vanko's first and last appearance in the Marvel Cinematic Universe came on his deathbed at the beginning of "Iron Man 2." "The Americans" alum Costa Ronin will breathe new life into Vanko on "Marvel's Agent Carter" as the show further explores the Russian scientist during his younger days.
"Fans have wanted to learn more about Anton Vanko since he was first mentioned in 'Iron Man 2' and we're happy to deliver with Costa's terrific performance in 'Marvel's Agents Carter,'" Jeph Loeb, head of Marvel TV, told Marvel.com.
Vanko's son Ivan, played by Mickey Rourke, assumed the villainous duties against Tony Stark in the "Iron Man" sequel. Ivan was hell-bent on getting vengeance for his father, who was ruined after Tony's father Howard Stark had him deported from the United States because Anton wanted to profit off their latest invention, the Arc Reactor.
Ivan constructed the Whiplash armor to take on Tony's Iron Man and manipulated an army of robot drones to destroy the genius, billionaire, playboy and philanthropist. He proved unsuccessful as Tony and his friend Col. James Rhodes in the Iron Patriot suit teamed up to defeat the battered Russian son.
In addition to Ronin, "Agent Carter" will also welcome "Jane the Virgin" star Bridget Regan to the cast. She will play Dottie, a small-town girl from Iowa who will have a "huge impact on the life" of Agent Peggy Carter when they become neighbors.
"Bridget Regan brings the nuance and complexity of Dottie to life in a way that leaves no doubt as to her importance to Peggy," Loeb told Marvel.com.
"Marvel's Agent Carter" will premiere its eight-episode first season on Tuesday, Jan. 6 at 9 p.m. on ABC.
