A few months ago, we learned that the terrific Thomas Kretschmann was joining the Marvel Cinematic Universe as supervillain Baron von Strucker (though Marvel refrained from acknowledging it) and we immediately assumed his appearance in 'The Avengers 2' would be a one-and-done performance. Now, a new interview with the actor reveals that, in true Marvel fashion, Kretschmann actually signed on for multiple films and his monocled baddie will continue to threaten the Avengers and their allies in the years to come.

Speaking with B.Z. Berline (via The Hollywood Reporter), Kretschmann was able to say that he is signed on for several films but couldn't reveal any details. And he couldn't say any more because he was sworn to secrecy ... he couldn't say anything because Marvel is keeping it secret from him:

I have a multi-picture deal which means I will not only appear in ['Age of Ultron'], but they’re planning with me for a longer period of time ... I don’t know details yet, they’re keeping their cards close to their chest -- top secret!”

This isn't particularly surprising news. Almost every actor who signs on with Marvel Studios has a contact that attaches them to multiple films, with six being the magic number for many of the major 'Avengers' actors. What's interesting about Baron von Strucker, however, is the rumor going around about the ending of 'Captain America 2'!

[POTENTIAL SPOILERS] Lainey Gossip reported awhile back that "the twins," meaning newcomers Quicksilver (Aaron Taylor-Johnson) and Scarlet Witch (Elizabeth Olsen), will make their first appearance in the 'Captain America 2' post-credits scene. With these two rumored to be originally working for Strucker in 'The Avengers 2,' could we be seeing an appearance from Strucker in 'Cap 2,' as well? [END SPOILERS]

Since Kretschmann's part in 'The Avengers 2' is minor, Marvel could be laying the seeds for him to become a big baddie in a future movie. In the comics, von Strucker is an ally of Captan America villain the Red Skull, so we wouldn't be shocked to see him pop up as an antagonist in 'Captain America 3.'

'The Avengers 2' (officially titled 'The Avengers: Age of Ultron') is currently filming and will hit theaters on May 1, 2015.

More From ScreenCrush