Charles Melton is reportedly in talks to play Kakashi
Charles Melton may be the first major name attached to the upcoming live-action Naruto film. The actor is reportedly in final negotiations to join the project, which is being directed by Destin Daniel Cretton, the filmmaker behind Spider-Man: Brand New Day.
Melton is being considered for Kakashi Hatake, the experienced instructor responsible for guiding Team 7: Naruto Uzumaki, Sasuke Uchiha and Sakura Haruno.
Why Kakashi is an important role
Kakashi initially presents himself as a detached mentor with a habit of reading questionable books. Beneath that relaxed exterior, however, he is one of the Hidden Leaf Village’s most capable and disciplined ninja.
The character is also known for some of the series’ most recognisable techniques, including the lightning-based Chidori attack. That combination of humour, authority and combat skill gives the role considerable weight in any live-action adaptation.
Melton and Cretton bring established screen credentials
Melton is widely recognised for playing Reggie Mantle in Riverdale. His more recent work includes May December, Warfare and season 2 of Beef, a performance that earned him an Emmy nomination.
Cretton’s earlier directing credits include The Glass Castle and Just Mercy. He entered the Marvel Cinematic Universe with 2021’s Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings and most recently directed Spider-Man: Brand New Day. The latter has reportedly been setting box-office records, with star Tom Holland receiving a substantial salary and bonus arrangement.
Production is still some time away
Melton is the first reported casting choice connected with Cretton’s film. The director previously announced a search for actors to play the central Team 7 trio: Naruto, Sasuke and Sakura.
Production is not expected to begin until around February 2027, so the reported Kakashi casting remains subject to change. Lionsgate first attempted to develop a Naruto film roughly a decade ago before Cretton joined the project in 2024.
Cretton also has the support of series creator Masashi Kishimoto. When the director came aboard, Kishimoto said Cretton’s strength in making character-focused dramas convinced him that there was no better director for Naruto.
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