Funnyman Stephen Merchant joins cast of Hugh Jackman's 'Wolverine 3'

The Office co-creator Stephen Merchant has joined the cast of Wolverine 3, the latest in the Hugh Jackman-starring X-Men stand-alone franchise.

The British comedian, known for his work with Ricky Gervais, is the latest name to join the cast of the X-Men spin-off, reported Deadline.

Few details about Merchant's role have been released.

Richard E Grant has also signed up to play a "villainous mad-scientist type" in the new instalment.

Narcos star Boyd Holbrook, 34, will also portray a bad guy, while franchise regular Patrick Stewart will return as X-Men leader Professor X.

Wolverine 3 is expected to be Hugh's last outing as the character, a role he has embodied since 2000.

The film, directed by James Mangold, is scheduled to be released in cinemas in March next year.