# Who Will Play Ganondorf in the Zelda Movie? Uli Latukefu rumored to portray the legendary villain character. - **Source:** [Gizmodo](https://brifing.si/source/63382431-cef0-4c41-883e-2f88dc21351e) - **Published:** 2026-08-06 - **Topic:** [Business](https://brifing.si/c/business) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/cccb4f63-05e4-48bb-b131-aff656118679 ## What We Know About the Zelda Movie The Legend of Zelda movie, a collaboration between Sony and Nintendo, is set to release on April 30, 2027. Directed by Wes Ball, the film stars Benjamin Evan Ainsworth and Bo Bragason in lead roles. However, which Zelda story it will adapt and who will play other key characters remain closely guarded secrets, fueling fan speculation worldwide. ## Ganondorf Casting Rumor New York Times reporter Kyle Buchanan claims Australian actor Uli Latukefu will play Ganondorf, the iconic villain of the Zelda universe. As the primary antagonist across many Zelda games, Ganondorf's portrayal is crucial to the film's success. Sony has declined to comment on the casting rumors, maintaining secrecy around the production. ## Uli Latukefu's Career Highlights Uli Latukefu gained recognition for portraying young Dwayne Johnson in NBC's Young Rock series. His filmography includes a supporting role in Black Adam, lead role in Taika Waititi's Next Goal Wins, and appearances in Alien: Covenant and MaXXXine. Known for his physical presence and charisma, Latukefu seems well-suited for the demanding Ganondorf role. ## Physical Transformation for the Role Latukefu is expected to undergo extensive prosthetic makeup to match Ganondorf's distinctive appearance from the games. His experience playing physically demanding roles, including a young wrestler in Young Rock, suggests he can handle the challenging performance. Industry experts predict his Ganondorf will be a formidable opponent to Link on screen. ## Production Team and Process The Zelda adaptation is being directed by Wes Ball, known for the Maze Runner trilogy. Nintendo's hands-on involvement in production has raised hopes for a faithful adaptation. As a Sony Pictures production, the film is already generating significant buzz as one of the most anticipated blockbusters of summer 2027. ## Release Date Changes Originally scheduled for March 2027, the film's release was pushed back to May 7, 2027. Industry analysts suggest this delay allows more time for complex visual effects and post-production. The new date positions the film at the start of the summer blockbuster season, indicating studio confidence in its commercial potential. ## Fan Expectations Zelda fans hope the movie will surpass the reception of the Super Mario Bros. adaptation. Expectations are high for deep world-building and character development true to the games. Ganondorf's complex portrayal is seen as particularly crucial, with fans hoping for a villain that captures the character's depth from the game series. ## Future of Video Game Adaptations The Zelda movie's success could redefine video game adaptations in Hollywood. The collaboration between Nintendo's creative control and Sony's cinematic expertise might set a new standard. If successful, industry experts predict more Nintendo properties may get film adaptations, potentially ushering in a new era for game-to-movie projects. ## Sources covering this story - https://gizmodo.com/we-may-finally-know-whos-playing-ganondorf-in-the-legend-of-zelda-2000795458 — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._