Goddess of Thunder? Marvel's new Thor will be a woman

This image released by Marvel Comics shows a female superhero 'Thor' who will appear in upcoming comic book issues. (Provided / Marvel Comics)

NEW YORK -- Thor is now a Goddess of Thunder.

Marvel Comics announced Tuesday that the hammer-wielding Norse superhero will be a woman in upcoming comic book issues. Marvel was thin on details explaining the switch, but said in a press release that "no longer is the classic male hero able to hold the mighty hammer."

The new Thor was debuted on "The View" where artwork was revealed showcasing a buxom blonde clad a caped costume and brandishing the trademark hammer.

Series writer Jason Aaron says in a statement that "This is not She-Thor. This is not Lady Thor. ... This is THE Thor."

The Marvel universe has historically been male-dominated, but that may be changing. Marvel Studios is developing a stand-alone film for Black Widow, the character played by Scarlett Johansson.