Sam Neill may appear in Nintendo and Sony Pictures’ upcoming live-action The Legend of Zelda film, despite the production keeping his character under wraps.
The New Zealand actor, widely recognised as Dr Alan Grant in Steven Spielberg’s Jurassic Park, passed away in July at the age of 78. He reportedly completed filming an undisclosed part in director Wes Ball’s fantasy adventure before his death. Deadline reports that Neill joins Dichen Lachman and Yvonne Strahovski in the cast.
Strahovski, known for The Handmaid’s Tale and Mass Effect 2, is set to play a queen of some kind, potentially Zelda’s mother. Lachman, who appears in Severance, will portray Impa, the Sheikah protector and adviser to Hyrule’s royal family.
A final screen appearance?
Nintendo and Sony Pictures have not confirmed Neill’s role. If the reported casting is correct, the film could become the actor’s final appearance on the silver screen. Production concluded in spring 2026, with the movie scheduled to reach cinemas on April 30, 2027.
Bo Bragason will play Princess Zelda, while Benjamin Evan Ainsworth has been cast as Link. Nintendo’s Shigeru Miyamoto is producing alongside Sony veteran Avi Arad.
What we know about the Zelda movie
Official details remain limited beyond the casting announcements and released images. Movie set leaks appear to show filming in a wooded outdoor location, including a scene in which Impa advises Zelda.
There has been little public footage of Ainsworth as Link so far, although his performance in season three of House of the Dragon has helped reassure viewers who were uncertain about his casting. Ball has also described his intended approach as more “grounded” and “real” than a heavily stylised fantasy production.
Neill’s mystery character is already prompting speculation. The King of Hyrule is one possibility, although the role could require substantial prosthetics or costume work. More information may emerge before the film’s 2027 theatrical release.
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