Sam Neill is set to appear posthumously in The Legend of Zelda
The star of Jurassic Park passed away recently
It seems, that Sam Neill will appear posthumously in the film adaptation of "The Legend of Zelda." This was surprisingly reported by the website Deadline, citing unnamed sources. It is not known which role he will play. However, it is said to be one of Neill's final on-screen performances – if not the very last – to be captured on film before his death. The "Jurassic Park" star passed away on July 13 at the age of 78.
In addition to Neill, other cast members have been announced for "The Legend of Zelda," including Dichen Lachman and Yvonne Strahovski. Lachman is reportedly set to play the role of Impa, a bodyguard and advisor to Princess Zelda. There is currently less clear information about Strahovski's character, but it is believed to be a queen character. Lachman is known for her roles in series such as "Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D." and "Severance," among others. Most people are likely familiar with Strahovski as well from her performances in series such as "Dexter" and "The Handmaid's Tale."
The role of Zelda's antagonist is now reportedly set as well
It was recently reported that Uli Latukefu is said to have landed the role of Ganondorf. The central villain is a powerful warlock king who seeks to subjugate the kingdom of Hyrule. Deadline has heared that Latukefu has inked a multi-picture deal. The actor previously appeared in "Alien: Covenant," among other films.
"The Legend of Zelda" is based on the extremely successful Nintendo video game series of the same name, which has been around since 1986. Created by Shigeru Miyamoto and Takashi Tezuka, the series centers on the elf-like hero Link and Princess Zelda, who protect the magical land of Hyrule. As for the film adaptation, the plot has been kept under wraps so far. One thing is certain: Director Wes Ball is at the helm. The screenplay is by T. S. Nowlin. The duo has previously collaborated on the "Maze Runner" films. The two lead actors were announced over a year ago. The protagonist, Link, will be played by Benjamin Evan Ainsworth. Bo Bragason will take on the role of Princess Zelda. "The Legend of Zelda" is scheduled for release on April 30, 2027.
Sam Neill is sorely missed
Of all the "Legend of Zelda" casting news that has now been released, the news about Sam Neill is likely to be the most welcome for many. Most viewers will likely remember him for his role as paleontologist Alan Grant, which he played in 1993 in Steven Spielberg's blockbuster "Jurassic Park." The beloved character made a comeback eight years later in "Jurassic Park III" and again in 2022 in "Jurassic World Dominion."
Next year, the late star will be seen on the big screen in "Godzilla x Kong: Supernova." Now, with "The Legend of Zelda," another major film starring Sam Neill is unexpectedly joining the lineup. It's at least a small consolation for all the fans who sorely miss the actor.
