Sony and Nintendo’s highly anticipated live-action adaptation of The Legend of Zelda has finally found its heroes. After months of speculation and fan casting, the iconic roles of Princess Zelda and Link have been filled by two rising British stars, Bo Bragason and Benjamin Evan Ainsworth. Announced by Nintendo’s legendary Shigeru Miyamoto, this casting news marks a significant milestone for the film, which is set to hit theaters on May 7, 2027. Here’s everything you need to know about this exciting development, from the actors’ backgrounds to what fans can expect from this cinematic journey into Hyrule.
Casting Announcement: A New Zelda and Link
Nintendo’s Shigeru Miyamoto took to the company’s official X page to share the thrilling news, complete with first-look images of the actors in costume. “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,” Miyamoto wrote. “I am very much looking forward to seeing both of them on the big screen.” The announcement has sparked a wave of excitement among fans, eager to see how these young talents will embody the beloved characters.
Who Are Bo Bragason and Benjamin Evan Ainsworth?
| Actor | Role | Age | Notable Works |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bo Bragason | Princess Zelda | 21 | Renegade Nell (Disney+), The Radleys, Three Girls (BBC), The Jetty (BBC) |
| Benjamin Evan Ainsworth | Link | 16 | Pinocchio (2022, voice), The Haunting of Bly Manor (Netflix), Son of a Critch |
- Bo Bragason: At 21, Bragason is an emerging talent known for her versatility. Her role as Roxy in Disney+’s Renegade Nell showcased her ability to handle action and drama, while her performances in horror films like The Radleys and Censor highlight her range. Fans are already praising her ethereal look, which seems tailor-made for the regal yet fierce Princess Zelda.
- Benjamin Evan Ainsworth: At just 16, Ainsworth brings youthful energy to the role of Link, the courageous hero of Hyrule. His voice work as Pinocchio in Disney’s 2022 live-action remake demonstrated his ability to convey emotion, while his role as Miles in The Haunting of Bly Manor proved he can tackle complex characters. His age aligns with the younger iterations of Link, hinting at a possible adaptation inspired by games like Ocarina of Time.
Final Thoughts
Fans are overall in acceptance about these choices with some the other way around. The backlash is more on Links casting rather than Zelda, because of the big age gape between the two but it seems like it will work out. As production ramps up, fans are eager for more details about the film’s plot, setting, and supporting cast. Will it adapt a specific game like Ocarina of Time or create an original story? How will it balance action, romance, and the series’ signature puzzles? With Wes Ball at the helm and Miyamoto’s guiding hand, the Legend of Zelda movie has the potential to be a landmark in video game adaptations. For now, the casting of Bo Bragason and Benjamin Evan Ainsworth has given fans a tantalizing glimpse of Hyrule’s future on the big screen.
