'Fast 8' news, updates: Charlize Theron's character is franchise's most powerful villain yet

"Fast and Furious" actress Michelle Rodriguez, who portrays Letty Ortiz, stated that the upcoming installment will introduce the most powerful villain of the franchise. The antagonist will be portrayed by critically acclaimed actress Charlize Theron.
In an interview with Entertainment Tonight, the actress dished about the forthcoming movie. "We're gonna go hard on this one," Rodriguez told ET's Deidre Beha. "Charlize Theron is, I think, the most powerful villain this franchise has ever seen," she added.
After seven movies, the film series will finally introduce a female villain. Theron will be portraying a gun-wielding antagonist named Cipher. Little is known about the 41-year-old actress' role; however, her portrayal of Imperator Furiosa in "Mad Max: Fury Road" proves that she can take on an action-packed film.
Although the blockbuster series has become more popular through the years, Rodriguez revealed that one particular thing will get to sign on for possible sequels. The actress expressed that the show needs more females. Increasing the ante for females will get her to stick around.
"I just need some more feminine energy," she explained, adding, "We need some more women on the good side."
Helen Mirren has also been added to the list of newbies. Mirren will portray a villain. Another addition to the family is Scott Eastwood. The actor will be taking on the role of a law enforcement agent. "Game of Thrones" actor Kristofer Hivju will be one of the new members of the film. The actor will be portraying Cipher's henchman.
Meanwhile, Jason Statham will return as Deckard Shaw. Viewers can also expect the regular cast members aside from Rodriguez — Dwayne Johnson, Vin Diesel, Tyrese Gibson, Ludacris, Elsa Pataky, and Nathalie Emmanuel — to reprise their roles.
Fans will get the first glimpse of Theron's Cipher and her role in the movie in the first trailer for "Fast 8." The clip will be released on Dec. 11.
"Fast 8" is expected to premiere on April 14, 2017.