Uli Latukefu Lands Ganondorf Role in 2027 'Legend of Zelda' Film

Q: Will the famously silent hero Link finally speak in Nintendo's upcoming original live-action Zelda movie?

Probably yes, but it has not been officially confirmed. Nintendo and Sony have not said whether Link will speak in Wes Ball’s live-action *The Legend of Zelda* film. No plot details have been released, and Benjamin Evan Ainsworth, who plays Link, has said he cannot discuss the story. Still, the available evidence points toward a speaking version of Link. The movie is described as an original live-action story set in the Zelda universe, not a direct adaptation of one game, which gives the filmmakers more freedom with characterization. Ainsworth has also said he studied Link’s long history, including the character’s different “vocal portrayals,” suggesting voice and performance were part of his preparation. That would not necessarily break with franchise history as much as some fans assume. Link is famously quiet in many games, especially because players often project themselves onto him, but he is not strictly voiceless across all Zelda media and game interpretations. In the games, he has had vocalizations and implied dialogue, even if full spoken lines are rare. So the best answer right now is that a speaking Link seems likely in a live-action film built around dialogue and character interaction, but until Nintendo, Sony, or the filmmakers confirm it on the record, it remains speculation.

Q: Which iconic, undisclosed character did the late Sam Neill bring to life in one of his final screen performances?

It has not been disclosed. Deadline and the related reports all say Sam Neill’s role in *The Legend of Zelda* remains unknown. What can be said, based on the reporting, is that Neill completed a role in Wes Ball’s film before his death and that it is expected to be one of his final screen performances, possibly his last. But neither Nintendo, Sony, nor Deadline identified the character. Because of that, any name attached to Neill’s part would be speculation. Some coverage and fan discussion have guessed he could be the King of Hyrule or another major Hyrule figure, but there is no confirmed answer yet.

3 articles · Updated · Deadline · Aug 6

Uli Latukefu will play Ganondorf, the main villain in Sony and Nintendo’s live-action 'The Legend of Zelda', marking the first major casting reveal since the leads were announced in July.
A multi-picture deal for Latukefu points to longer-term plans for the franchise adaptation, which is scheduled to open in theaters on May 7, 2027.
Bo Bragason is set to play Zelda and Benjamin Evan Ainsworth will play Link, with Wes Ball directing from a script draft by T.S. Nowlin.
The film adapts Nintendo’s 1986 franchise, which has sold more than 150 million units and arrives as studios keep chasing video-game hits after 'The Super Mario Bros. Movie' and 'A Minecraft Movie'.