Fans speculated about a live-action Princess Zelda, with many eyeing transgender actress Hunter Schafer. Nintendo surprised everyone with a different cast. Well excuuuuuse me, princess!
Quick Overview
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Nintendo legend Shigeru Miyamoto announced the live-action The Legend of Zelda movie cast, selecting Bo Bragason as Princess Zelda and Benjamin Evan Ainsworth as Link.
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The choice bypasses Hunter Schafer, whose casting rumor originated from a Hollywood leak, sparking controversy over her transgender identity.
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Fan reactions online show a mix of excitement and disappointment over the new cast.
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The announcement builds on the franchise’s rich history in TV and film, setting the stage for the 2027 movie.
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It’s a shake-up that’s got gamers buzzing—hit or miss?
Miyamoto’s Big Reveal
Nintendo’s Shigeru Miyamoto, the creator of The Legend of Zelda, unveiled the live-action movie cast via a statement on X. He shared, “I am very much looking forward to seeing both of them on the big screen,” highlighting his enthusiasm.
The cast includes Bo Bragason, a 21-year-old UK actress as Princess Zelda, and Benjamin Evan Ainsworth, a 16-year-old, as Link.
Set for a May 2027 release, the film is co-produced by Miyamoto and Avi Arad, with Sony Pictures distributing. It’s a landmark moment from the gaming pioneer.
The Cast: Bo Bragason and Benjamin Evan Ainsworth
Bo Bragason steps into Princess Zelda with her emerging talent from Renegade Nell, bringing a fresh perspective. Benjamin Evan Ainsworth, known for Pinocchio and The Haunting of Bly Manor, takes on the silent hero Link at just 16. Both UK natives, their casting aligns with Nintendo’s vision for an authentic yet imaginative adaptation. Fans have noted Ainsworth’s youthful vigor and Bragason’s poised demeanor, making this duo a focal point of discussion.
The Hunter Schafer Controversy and Rumor Origin
The decision to cast Bo Bragason over Hunter Schafer has stirred debate. Schafer, a transgender actress from Euphoria, expressed interest in the role in a 2023 Variety interview, fueling speculation.
The rumor of her casting originated with Hollywood “scooper” DanielRPK, who claimed in June 2023 that Schafer was in talks for Princess Zelda, a leak amplified by outlets like The Independent.
Her exclusion, given her transgender identity, has sparked discussions on representation. Some see it as a missed chance for diversity, while others view it as a return to traditional casting, reflecting ongoing Hollywood inclusivity debates.
Backlash to the Announcement
Fan reactions online to the casting announcement are polarized. Some express excitement over the new actors, appreciating their potential to embody the characters. Others voice disappointment, particularly over the absence of Hunter Schafer, with complaints about age differences and deviations from the characters’ iconic looks.
Coverage from GameRant and discussions on Reddit’s r/Zelda community highlight this divide, with debates focusing on representation and fidelity to the source material.
Zelda’s History in TV and Film
The Legend of Zelda franchise, launched in 1986, has a storied presence beyond games. An American animated TV series aired in 1989, produced by DiC and distributed by Viacom, featuring 13 episodes that blended action with humor but received mixed reviews for straying from the source.
Manga adaptations began in Japan in 1997, offering deeper lore explorations. Early film attempts included a canceled 1990s project by Dino De Laurentiis, and rumors of a movie persisted until 2023, when Nintendo partnered with Sony Pictures for this live-action venture. The franchise’s success, with over 150 million game copies sold, underscores its cultural impact, making this film a high-stakes adaptation.
The Takeaway
Nintendo’s Shigeru Miyamoto has cast Bo Bragason and Benjamin Evan Ainsworth as the live-action Princess Zelda and Link, sidestepping Hunter Schafer and her rumor-fueled buzz. The controversy highlights representation issues, while fan reactions online reveal a split between enthusiasm and critique. With a rich TV and film history behind it, the 2027 film could either honor the franchise’s legacy or redefine it. The outcome hangs in the balance.
News compiled and edited by Derek Gibbs and Steven Bubbles. Follow us on ClownfishTV.com for more gaming, pop culture, and tech news, and consider subscribing for only $5 per month to get access to exclusive podcasts and other content.
Sources:
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Nintendo’s X announcement by Shigeru Miyamoto (July 16, 2025)
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IGN: Report on The Legend of Zelda movie casting
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BBC: Coverage of Bo Bragason and Benjamin Evan Ainsworth casting
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Variety: Hunter Schafer’s 2023 interview on Zelda interest
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The Independent: Report on DanielRPK’s casting leak
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GameRant: Article on fan backlash to casting choices
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Wikipedia: The Legend of Zelda TV and film history
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X trends from the announcement thread
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Reddit threads in r/Zelda on casting reaction
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