Anne Hathaway is Catwoman in The Dark Knight Rises

It's official. After months of speculation and rumors, Warner Bros. Pictures announced today that Anne Hathaway has joined the cast of The Dark Knight Rises. Hathaway will be playing Selina Kyle (aka Catwoman) in Christopher Nolan's third Batman film.

In making the announcement Nolan stated, "I am thrilled to have the opportunity to work with Anne Hathaway, who will be a fantastic addition to our ensemble as we complete our story."

Hathaway, who had been competing against a pack of actresses thought to include Gemma Arterton, Jessica Biel, and Keira Knightley, joins returning Batman stars Christian Bale, Michael Caine and Gary Oldman, and franchise newbie Tom Hardy. Warner Bros also revealed Hardy will be playing 'Bane' in The Dark Knight Rises.

"I am delighted to be working with Tom again and excited to watch him bring to life our new interpretation of one of Batman's most formidable enemies," said Nolan. The two previously worked together on Inception.

Christopher and Jonathan Nolan wrote the script, with Nolan, Emma Thomas and Charles Roven producing. The Dark Knight Rises rises in theaters on July 20, 2012.

Also of Interest:

• Review of The Dark Knight and Batman Begins
  
• Anne Hathaway to host the Oscars
  
• Tom Hardy joins the Batman #3 cast

<sub>(Photo of Anne Hathaway by Kevork Djansezian / Getty Images)

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