Chris Evans has signed on to play the titular superhero in the upcoming big-screen comic-book adaptation "Captain America," Marvel Entertainment said.

ADVERTISEMENT

As part of the agreement, Evans will star in at least three "Captain America" movies, starting with "The First Avenger: Captain America," Variety said.

The first installment in the franchise is to open July 22, 2011, and will feature Hugo Weaving as the villain, Red Skull. Joe Johnston is directing it.

Evans also is to play Captain America in the superhero ensemble picture "The Avengers," the entertainment industry trade newspaper said.

The actor previously appeared in two "Fantastic Four" movies based on Marvel comic books.