July 16, 2025 – Nintendo has dropped a bombshell for fans of The Legend of Zelda, unveiling the lead actors for its live-action film, set to storm theaters on May 7, 2027. Rising star Bo Bragason will embody the iconic Princess Zelda, while young talent Benjamin Evan Ainsworth takes on the legendary role of Link. Announced by gaming icon Shigeru Miyamoto, this casting news has set the internet ablaze, promising an epic adventure in the world of Hyrule. Here’s everything you need to know about this highly anticipated film, exclusively for clickusanews.com readers!

Nintendo’s Big Reveal: Meet the Stars of Hyrule

In a thrilling update shared through Nintendo’s Nintendo Today! app and social media, Shigeru Miyamoto, the mastermind behind The Legend of Zelda, confirmed the casting: “I am thrilled to share that Bo Bragason-san will play Zelda, and Benjamin Evan Ainsworth-san will portray Link in the live-action The Legend of Zelda film. I can’t wait to see them bring Hyrule to life on the big screen!” The announcement included stunning first-look images, showcasing Bragason in a regal blue gown inspired by Zelda’s Breath of the Wild look and Ainsworth in a dark green tunic, channeling Link’s classic hero vibe.

Who Are Bo Bragason and Benjamin Evan Ainsworth?

• Bo Bragason, a 21-year-old English actress, is known for standout performances in BBC’s Three Girls (2017), The Jetty (2024), and Disney+’s Renegade Nell (2024). Her role in the 2024 comedy The Radleys highlighted her range, making her a perfect fit for the poised yet fierce Princess Zelda.
• Benjamin Evan Ainsworth, only 16, is a British actor who voiced Pinocchio in Disney’s live-action Pinocchio (2022) and starred as Miles in Netflix’s The Haunting of Bly Manor (2020). His youthful charm and “elf-like” features have fans buzzing that he’s the ideal Link, the silent hero of Hyrule.

Fans are already raving about the choices, with one X post declaring, “They nailed it! Bo and Benjamin look straight out of Hyrule!” Another user gushed, “Ainsworth’s got that perfect Link energy—young, brave, and ready to swing a sword!”

What to Expect from The Legend of Zelda Movie

Announced in November 2023, the live-action The Legend of Zelda is a joint venture between Nintendo and Sony Pictures Entertainment, with Nintendo footing over 50% of the budget. Directed by Wes Ball (The Maze Runner, Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes), the film aims for a “grounded and real” take on the beloved franchise, avoiding heavy CGI or motion-capture effects. The screenplay, written by Derek Connolly (Jurassic World), is produced by Miyamoto and Avi Arad, the producer behind Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse and Iron Man.

While the plot remains a closely guarded secret, fans speculate it may draw from The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, the franchise’s best-selling game, or craft an original story set in the mystical land of Hyrule. The film’s release was recently pushed from March to May 7, 2027, to ensure top-notch production quality and sidestep competition with films like Godzilla x Kong: Supernova.

Why This Casting Is a Game-Changer

Nintendo’s decision to cast up-and-coming actors rather than A-list stars has won over fans, who appreciate the focus on authenticity. Social media is buzzing with excitement, with comments like “They look like they stepped out of the game!” and “Nintendo’s respecting the source material with these picks.” Ainsworth’s youthful casting at 16 has sparked theories of a story featuring a young Link, possibly exploring a dual-timeline narrative like Ocarina of Time.

The film’s grounded approach, as teased by Wes Ball, aims to deliver “what fans have always dreamed of” while introducing Hyrule to new audiences. Unlike the star-packed Super Mario Bros. Movie, which grossed over $1.36 billion, The Legend of Zelda is betting on fresh talent to capture the franchise’s magic.

Fan Buzz and Social Media Reactions

The casting reveal has taken platforms like X by storm. Fans are thrilled, with one user posting, “Bo Bragason as Zelda and Benjamin Ainsworth as Link? This is PERFECT casting!” Another wrote, “They’ve got that elven vibe nailed. May 2027 can’t come soon enough!” Some fans remain cautiously optimistic, with one commenting, “I need to see Ainsworth’s ‘HYAAAH’ before I’m fully on board, but this looks promising.”

What’s Next for Zelda Fans?

With filming underway in New Zealand, anticipation is building for The Legend of Zelda movie. Fans are eager for more details on the plot, supporting cast (will we see Ganon?), and the film’s visual style. As Nintendo expands its cinematic universe post-Super Mario Bros. Movie, this adaptation is poised to be a cultural milestone for gamers and moviegoers alike.

Stay locked on clickusanews.com for the latest The Legend of Zelda movie updates, from trailers to behind-the-scenes scoops. Mark May 7, 2027, on your calendar for an epic journey into Hyrule!

Conclusion

The casting of Bo Bragason as Princess Zelda and Benjamin Evan Ainsworth as Link is a bold move for Nintendo’s live-action The Legend of Zelda film. With a visionary team, fresh talent, and a release date of May 7, 2027, this movie is shaping up to be a must-see for fans of the iconic franchise. Get ready to explore Hyrule like never before!