Sam Neill’s Role in the Zelda Movie Completed Before His Passing

August has been buzzing with updates about the upcoming live-action adaptation of The Legend of Zelda. Following the announcement of Ganondorf’s casting, it was revealed that the late Sam Neill will also be part of this highly anticipated film.

Neill, renowned for his role as Dr. Alan Grant in Jurassic Park, sadly passed away in July at the age of 78. Before his passing, he completed filming for an undisclosed role in The Legend of Zelda movie. Reports also indicate that Dichen Lachman, known for her work in Severance, and Yvonne Strahovski, famous for her role in Mass Effect 2 and The Handmaid’s Tale, will join the cast. Strahovski is set to portray a queen character, possibly Zelda’s mother, while Lachman will take on the role of Impa, the Sheikah protector of the royal family in Hyrule.

While Nintendo and Sony Pictures have yet to disclose Neill’s specific character, this film could mark his final appearance on screen. Filming wrapped up in spring 2026, with a release date slated for May 2027. Neill, Lachman, and Strahovski will be joined by Bo Bragason as Princess Zelda and Benjamin Evan Ainsworth as Link. The film is being produced by Nintendo’s Shigeru Miyamoto alongside Sony veteran Avi Arad.

Aside from the initial casting news and a few images of the stars, details about the movie remain scarce. Leaked set photos suggest that part of the film was shot in a forested area, featuring Impa advising Zelda. Although fans haven’t seen much of Ainsworth as Link yet, his performance in Season 3 of House of the Dragon has impressed those who were initially skeptical about his casting. Director Wes Ball has expressed his vision for a more “grounded” and “real” approach to the fantasy genre.

Any guesses on who Neill might be portraying? I’m leaning towards the King of Hyrule, but unless he’s in heavy prosthetics, I’m not sure he fits the physicality of that role. Regardless, we should learn more before the film hits theaters on April 30, 2027.

The 2027 film based on Nintendo’s beloved RPG series has officially found its villain.