The highly anticipated live-action The Legend of Zelda film continues to generate buzz, especially with new rumors suggesting a major casting choice that could excite fans of both gaming and television. According to trusted industry insider Daniel Richtman, actress Hunter Schafer is reportedly being eyed for the coveted role of Princess Zelda.
Schafer: A Fan-Favorite for Princess Zelda
While no official casting announcements have been made, Schafer has already emerged as a favorite among fans for the role of Hyrule’s royal heroine. Known for her acclaimed performance as Jules Vaughn in HBO’s Euphoria, Schafer has built a reputation for delivering emotionally resonant and complex performances. She also played Tigris Snow in The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes and will appear in the upcoming Blade Runner 2099 series.
Fans point to Schafer’s striking resemblance to Princess Zelda and her proven acting range as reasons she would be a strong fit. Her own enthusiasm for the video game series only fuels the excitement further. Speaking to Entertainment Tonight in 2023, Schafer expressed interest in playing Zelda, saying, “I played that video game a bunch when I was a kid. That’s such a good game.”
Passport Controversy Adds Unexpected Spotlight
The timing of this casting rumor coincides with recent headlines involving Schafer’s legal identification. She revealed that her new U.S. passport listed her gender as male despite selecting female on her application. The error, which she attributed to federal policy shifts during the Trump administration, reignited discussions on transgender rights in public documentation. Though unrelated to the Zelda film, the issue has drawn additional attention to Schafer in the media landscape.
Link Casting Still Up in the Air
While speculation around Schafer heats up, fans are also eager to know who will take on the role of Link. One name floated around is Walker Scobell, known for The Adam Project and Disney+’s Percy Jackson and the Olympians. Although Scobell confirmed he’s a fan of the games—having played Breath of the Wild—he appeared unsure about accepting the role if offered.
“I don’t know if I’d be interested in playing Link,” he admitted in an interview, before adding, “If they came to me, I’d definitely consider it, one hundred percent.” Some fans have also mentioned Tom Holland, though reports suggest the studios are leaning toward a younger actor.
Behind the Scenes: Production Team and Release Date
The live-action Legend of Zelda film is in development through a partnership between Nintendo and Sony Pictures. Directing the film is Wes Ball, known for The Maze Runner trilogy and Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes. Producing alongside him are Nintendo legend Shigeru Miyamoto, famed film producer Avi Arad (Spider-Man, Uncharted), and Joe Hartwick Jr. under their Oddball Entertainment banner.
The film is officially scheduled to hit theaters on March 26, 2027.
Also Read: HBO’s “Harry Potter” TV Series Reveals Its Lead Trio and Star-Studded Cast
