Nintendo Unveils the Lead Cast for Its Highly Anticipated Live-Action Zelda Movie
The wait is officially over! Nintendo has confirmed casting for the lead roles in the upcoming live-action adaptation of The Legend of Zelda, sending waves of excitement—and debate—through the gaming community and film industry alike.
British talents Bo Bragason and Benjamin Evan Ainsworth have been selected to portray Princess Zelda and Link, respectively, marking the dawn of a new era in Hyrule’s cinematic journey.
Key Cast Members Announced
| Character | Actor/Actress | Known For | Nationality | Age |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Link | Benjamin Evan Ainsworth | Disney's Pinocchio, The Haunting of Bly Manor | British | 16 |
| Princess Zelda | Bo Bragason | BBC’s Three Girls, The Jetty, Disney’s Renegade Nell | British | 21 |
The film is set to be directed by Wes Ball (Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes) and scheduled for a theatrical release on May 7, 2027. Renowned producer Avi Arad will co-produce alongside Nintendo legend Shigeru Miyamoto, with Sony Pictures handling distribution.
What Nintendo and the Creators Said
In an official post on X (formerly Twitter), Nintendo’s Shigeru Miyamoto wrote:
“I am pleased to announce that for the live-action film of The Legend of Zelda, Zelda will be played by Bo Bragason-san, and Link by Benjamin Evan Ainsworth-san. I am very much looking forward to seeing both of them on the big screen.â€
The Impact: Why This Casting Matters
1. Returning to the Franchise’s Roots
Choosing younger, less widely known actors echoes the spirit of adventure and discovery that defines the Zelda franchise. Link and Zelda are both portrayed as earnest, courageous, and often youthful, making these casting selections a faithful reflection of the source material.
2. A Strategic Cinematic Move
With the massive commercial success of The Super Mario Bros. Movie, Nintendo and Sony are eager to expand their cinematic universe. Bringing Hyrule to life in live-action is a bold step, aiming to capture both loyal fans and new generations alike.
The Legend of Zelda Movie Release Date
The live-action The Legend of Zelda movie is scheduled for release on May 7, 2027. This date was confirmed by Nintendo producer Shigeru Miyamoto, who announced the delay from the previously set March 26, 2027, to allow additional time for production enhancements .
Directed by Wes Ball, known for The Maze Runner trilogy and Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes, the film is a collaboration between Nintendo and Sony Pictures Entertainment. Shigeru Miyamoto and Avi Arad are producing the project, with Derek Connolly penning the script
What to Expect
The live-action Legend of Zelda movie is expected to stay true to the game's rich lore while introducing new elements to captivate both longtime fans and newcomers.
With a talented cast and experienced production team, the film aims to deliver an immersive experience that brings the world of Hyrule to life on the big screen.
Disclaimer:
The information provided regarding the live-action Legend of Zelda movie, including the casting, release date, and production details, is based on official announcements and current reports. The details, such as the release date and cast, are subject to change as more updates are provided by the production team and studios. For the most up-to-date information, please refer to official sources from Nintendo, Sony Pictures, and the film’s creators.
