Quick Read
- Bo Bragason has been cast as Princess Zelda in Nintendo’s live-action adaptation of ‘The Legend of Zelda.’
- The film, directed by Wes Ball, is set for release on May 7, 2027.
- Bragason is a rising star known for roles in BBC’s ‘The Jetty’ and Disney+’s ‘Renegade Nell.’
- Her co-star, 16-year-old Benjamin Evan Ainsworth, will play Link, the franchise’s iconic hero.
Nintendo has officially unveiled the stars of its highly anticipated live-action adaptation of The Legend of Zelda, scheduled for release on May 7, 2027. The announcement, made on July 16, 2025, by legendary video game designer Shigeru Miyamoto, confirmed British actors Bo Bragason and Benjamin Evan Ainsworth as the iconic Princess Zelda and Link, respectively. This casting choice has generated significant buzz among fans, with both excitement and speculation about how the beloved game franchise will translate to the big screen.
Bo Bragason as Princess Zelda: A Rising Star
Bo Bragason, a 21-year-old actress from Chichester, England, has been cast as Princess Zelda, marking a significant milestone in her burgeoning career. Born in 2004, Bragason’s acting journey began early, with her first appearance as a toddler in the French film L’Amour Caché. She later gained recognition for her motion capture work in Square Enix’s CGI film Kingsglaive: Final Fantasy XV, portraying Young Luna.
Bragason’s breakout roles came in 2024, where she starred as Amy Knightly in the BBC murder mystery miniseries The Jetty and as the younger sister in Disney+’s fantasy drama Renegade Nell. Her diverse roles showcase her range, from a rebellious teen in The Jetty to the poised and strategic Princess Zelda. As noted by IGN, her prior work demonstrates her ability to bring depth and nuance to complex characters, a quality that will undoubtedly enrich her portrayal of Zelda.
In interviews, Bragason has expressed gratitude for the opportunity to learn on set, often working alongside seasoned actors. In an October 2024 podcast appearance on Deepest Dream, she stated, “Every role that I’ve done, I can truly say that I’m grateful for because they have kind of all been so different.” This adaptability makes her an intriguing choice for Zelda, a character known for her evolution across the game series.
The Legend of Zelda: A Cinematic Journey
The live-action film, helmed by director Wes Ball of Maze Runner fame, promises to be a visually stunning and emotionally resonant adaptation. Ball has described his vision as a “live-action Miyazaki,” emphasizing wonder and whimsy over dark, epic tones. According to Los Angeles Times, the film has a reported budget of $170 million and aims to capture the magic of the game franchise, which debuted in 1986 and has since become one of Nintendo’s most iconic properties.
The casting of Bragason and Ainsworth as Zelda and Link, respectively, suggests the film may draw inspiration from games like Ocarina of Time or The Wind Waker, which feature younger versions of the characters. The duo’s youthful energy aligns well with the adventurous and heartfelt spirit of the series. As noted by People, fans are already speculating about the storyline, with some hoping for elements from the critically acclaimed Breath of the Wild.
Benjamin Evan Ainsworth as Link: A Promising Pair
Joining Bragason is 16-year-old Benjamin Evan Ainsworth, who will portray Link, the courageous hero of Hyrule. Ainsworth, from Yorkshire, England, is best known for voicing Pinocchio in Disney’s 2022 live-action adaptation and starring in Netflix’s The Haunting of Bly Manor. His recent role in the indie film Everything’s Going to Be Great alongside Bryan Cranston has further cemented his reputation as a versatile young actor.
Despite their youth, both actors bring impressive resumes to the table. As noted by Men’s Journal, their casting signals Nintendo’s intent to prioritize fresh talent capable of embodying the essence of these beloved characters. Ainsworth’s portrayal of Link, who is often silent in the games but expressive through action, will be a key element in bringing the character to life onscreen.
Fan Expectations and Future Developments
With less than two years until its release, the film is already generating considerable anticipation. Fans are eager to see how the story will unfold, whether it will adapt a specific game or present an original narrative. The inclusion of iconic characters like Ganon, the series’ primary antagonist, and the possibility of other fan favorites such as Impa or Tingle, remains a topic of speculation. As noted by IGN, the initial reveal of the actors in costume has only heightened excitement, despite some noting the absence of details like Hylian ears or finalized designs.
The live-action adaptation follows the massive success of The Super Mario Bros. Movie, which grossed $1.4 billion worldwide. This sets a high bar for The Legend of Zelda, but with a strong creative team and a dedicated fan base, the project has all the ingredients for success.
*As production gears up, fans can look forward to more updates and glimpses into the making of this ambitious adaptation. For now, the casting of Bo Bragason as Princess Zelda marks an exciting chapter in the legacy of this cherished franchise.*