Photo Credit: Universal Pictures
The Legend of Zelda has yet another casting update. This comes after the latest addition of Uli Latukefu as Ganondorf. As per a new report, the late Sam Neill will appear in the highly anticipated adaptation, marking one of his final big-screen appearances and potentially his last. The report also mentions two new stars from Sevenace and The Handmaid’s Tale.
According to Deadline, Sam Neill, who passed away on July 13 at the age of 78, will appear in the upcoming live-action film. While Sony has not confirmed his exact role, The Jurassic Park star had completed his part in the film before the production wrapped in April.
The report also confirms other new cast members and their roles in The Legend of Zelda. Severance star Dichen Lachman and Chuck actress Yvonne Strahovski will join the ensemble. Lachman will reportedly play Impa, Princess Zelda’s trusted advisor and bodyguard. Meanwhile, Strahovski is reportedly set to play a queen, though details remain unknown.
The new cast will join Benjamin Evan Ainsworth as Link, Bo Bragason as Princess Zelda, and Uli Latukefu as Ganondorf.
Who do The Legend of Zelda fans think Sam Neill could be playing in the live-action movie?
Neill’s role in the movie remains a mystery, but fans online started to shed light on who he might be playing. A popular assumption points to King Rhoam, Zelda’s father and the ruler of Hyrule. Many believe the character’s wisdom and leadership would suit the gravitas Neill brought to his earlier roles.
Photo Credit: BBC Two
Others think Neill may have portrayed an original character created specifically for the movie. As the plot details of the movie are not shared, it is plausible that the filmmakers would introduce new characters while adapting the famous franchise. A few even suggested he could play an elder, a sage, or a mentor guiding Link and Zelda.
The New Zealand star also has other unreleased projects in his name. Godzilla x Kong: Supernova and Lost Resort are the titles which also expected to release next year.
Nintendo first announced the project in 2023, which adapts its long-running video game franchise. Wes Ball is directing the film, while franchise creator Shigeru Miyamoto is producing alongside Avi Arad. The movie’s production began in November 2025 and wrapped in April 2026.
The Legend of Zelda will arrive in theaters on April 30, 2027.
Originally reported by Manoj Chekkilla on ComingSoon.
