Zelda Movie Cast: The anticipation for the live-action The Legend of Zelda movie has been building ever since Nintendo announced the project in November 2023. Fans of the iconic video game series have been buzzing with excitement, speculating about everything from the plot to the cast. Now, the wait for some concrete news is over! Nintendo has officially revealed the lead actors for the film, and it’s time to dive into what this means for the upcoming cinematic journey to Hyrule. Set to hit theaters on May 7, 2027, this film is shaping up to be a major event for gamers and moviegoers alike. Here’s a breakdown of the casting news, the talent involved, and what we can expect from this highly anticipated adaptation.
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Bo Bragason as Princess Zelda
Nintendo dropped a bombshell on July 16, 2025, when Shigeru Miyamoto, the legendary creator of The Legend of Zelda, announced via social media that Bo Bragason will take on the role of Princess Zelda. At just 21 years old, Bragason is a rising star with a promising resume. She’s appeared in Netflix’s fantasy adventure Renegade Nell and the BBC’s crime drama The Jetty, showcasing her ability to handle complex, layered characters. Fans are thrilled with this choice, as Bragason’s youthful energy and acting chops seem perfect for bringing the wise and regal Princess Zelda to life. Her previous roles suggest she can capture Zelda’s grace and strength, qualities that define the princess across the game series. With first-look photos showing her in costume, the excitement is palpable—she looks like she stepped right out of Hyrule
Benjamin Evan Ainsworth as Link
Joining Bragason is Benjamin Evan Ainsworth, who will embody the heroic Link. At 16 years old, Ainsworth is a bold and surprising choice for the silent protagonist, given his young age and relatively low profile. Known for roles in The Haunting of Bly Manor and Disney’s Flora & Ulysses, Ainsworth brings a fresh face to the franchise, which many fans appreciate. Nintendo’s decision to cast lesser-known actors feels intentional, avoiding the distraction of A-list celebrities and focusing on talent that can fully immerse audiences in the world of Zelda. Some fans have noted that Ainsworth’s brown hair deviates from Link’s traditionally blonde locks, sparking playful debates online. Still, his youthful appearance aligns with the teenage Link seen in games like Ocarina of Time, hinting at a story that might explore the hero’s early adventures.
The Vision Behind the Casting
The choice of Bragason and Ainsworth reflects a deliberate move by Nintendo and director Wes Ball to ground the film in authenticity. Unlike the star-studded Super Mario Bros. Movie, which featured big names like Chris Pratt, this casting prioritizes actors who can fully embody their characters without overshadowing the Zelda universe. Ball, known for The Maze Runner and Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes, has emphasized creating a “serious, cool, but fun and whimsical” film that feels like a live-action Miyazaki adventure. By choosing younger, less familiar actors, the team seems to be aiming for a fresh, immersive experience that resonates with the franchise’s global fanbase. This approach also suggests a long-term vision, potentially locking in these actors for future sequels.
What’s Next for the Zelda Movie?
While the casting news is a major milestone, much about the Legend of Zelda movie remains under wraps. Nintendo has kept the plot a mystery, leaving fans to speculate whether the film will adapt a specific game like Ocarina of Time or Twilight Princess or craft an original story. Produced by Miyamoto and Avi Arad, with a screenplay by T.S. Nowlin, the film promises to honor the franchise’s rich lore while delivering a cinematic escape. The decision to delay the release from March to May 2027 shows Nintendo’s commitment to quality, giving the team extra time to polish this ambitious project. As production gears up, fans are eager for more updates—especially on who will play the villainous Ganon! For now, the casting of Bragason and Ainsworth has set the stage for an epic adventure, and the journey to Hyrule is looking more real than ever.