The wait is over for fans eagerly anticipating the silver screen adaptation of the beloved Nintendo franchise, The Legend of Zelda. In a highly anticipated announcement, Nintendo has finally revealed the talented actors who will bring the iconic heroes, Link and Zelda, to life in the upcoming live-action film. The studio has cast rising British actress Bo Bragason as the wise and courageous Princess Zelda, and the role of the legendary hero Link will be portrayed by the talented young British actor Benjamin Evan Ainsworth.
This casting reveal marks a significant milestone in the development of the film, which has been generating considerable buzz since its initial announcement. The selection of Bragason and Ainsworth has already sparked widespread discussion among fans, eager to see how these actors will embody the cherished characters who have captivated audiences for decades through the enduring video game series.
Meet Your Hyrule Heroes: Bo Bragason and Benjamin Evan Ainsworth
Bo Bragason, a 21-year-old actress hailing from the United Kingdom, has already garnered recognition for her compelling performances in several notable television productions. She is best known for her roles in the BBC One series "Three Girls" and "The Docks," showcasing her range and ability to tackle complex characters. Bragason also featured in the Disney+ project "Nell the Robber," further expanding her presence on streaming platforms. Adding to her diverse portfolio, she starred in the Evros Lin-directed comedy "Easy Vampires," demonstrating her versatility across genres. Her burgeoning career and previous roles suggest a promising portrayal of the regal and determined Princess Zelda, a character central to the lore and narrative of The Legend of Zelda.
Joining her as the heroic Link is the exceptionally talented 16-year-old British actor Benjamin Evan Ainsworth. Ainsworth has already made a significant impact on audiences through his voice acting and on-screen presence. In 2022, he lent his voice to the titular character of Pinocchio in Robert Zemeckis' reimagining of the classic tale, showcasing his ability to bring animated characters to life with nuance and emotion. Ainsworth also starred in the critically acclaimed Netflix series "The Haunting of Bly Manor," delivering a memorable performance in a haunting and complex narrative. His credits further include a role in the Canadian comedy series "Son of Critch" and an appearance in the popular Netflix adaptation of "The Sandman," highlighting his versatility and experience despite his young age. His previous work suggests he possesses the talent to capture the bravery, resilience, and quiet determination that define the character of Link.
Behind the Camera: A Talented Team Leads the Adventure
The live-action The Legend of Zelda film is being helmed by the visionary director Wes Ball, known for his work on the thrilling "The Maze Runner" film series. Ball's experience in directing action-adventure films with strong visual elements makes him a fitting choice to bring the expansive world of Hyrule to the big screen. His recent directorial effort, "Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes," further underscores his ability to handle large-scale productions and deliver compelling narratives with stunning visuals.
Adding a crucial layer of authenticity and connection to the source material is the involvement of the legendary game designer Shigeru Miyamoto, the very creator of The Legend of Zelda franchise. Miyamoto serves as one of the producers on the film, ensuring that the adaptation remains true to the spirit and essence of the beloved games that have captivated millions worldwide. His creative input and guidance will be invaluable in translating the rich lore, iconic characters, and enchanting world of Hyrule into a cinematic experience that resonates with both longtime fans and newcomers to the franchise.
Release Date Update: Mark Your Calendars for May 7, 2027
Fans have been eagerly awaiting news on the film's release, and Nintendo has provided an updated premiere date. Originally slated for a March 2027 release, the film's debut has been slightly adjusted due to production considerations. The live-action The Legend of Zelda movie is now officially scheduled to premiere on May 7, 2027. This new date provides a concrete timeline for fans to look forward to experiencing the epic adventure on the big screen.
The announcement of the lead actors and the reaffirmed release window inject a fresh wave of excitement into the project. As the production moves forward, fans will undoubtedly be keen for further updates, including first-look images, trailers, and more details about the film's storyline and its adaptation of the rich mythology of The Legend of Zelda. The combination of a talented cast, an experienced director, and the guidance of the franchise's creator sets a promising stage for what could be a landmark video game film adaptation.
This is Miyamoto. 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. (1/2) pic.twitter.com/KA5XW3lwul
— 任倩ε ζ ͺεΌδΌη€Ύ (@Nintendo) July 16, 2025
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