The Welsh actor has been cast in the upcoming James Bond movie, alongside Spanish actor Javier Bardem, although Rhys' role has not been revealed.

"Ifans will appear in the film, as well as Javier Bardem, who will play the baddie. Much of the filming will take place in South Africa," a source told the Telegraph.

Rhys, better known for his supporting parts in Notting Hill and Mr Nice, will be reunited with Daniel Craig, who plays the eponymous superspy, after working together in Enduring Love.

Ralph Fiennes, Naomie Harris and Dame Judi Dench are all set to appear in Bond 23, penned by Notes On A Scandal's Patrick Marber.

Filming is set to begin this autumn and the still-untitled film will be on screens in November 2012.