Nintendo Casts Women as Zelda, Link, Trans Activists Criticize

Nintendo and Sony Pictures announced the casting for the upcoming live-action "The Legend of Zelda" movie, selecting Bo Bragason to play Zelda and Benjamin Evan Ainsworth as Link, with oversight from series creator Shigeru Miyamoto. The casting decision sparked backlash from some transgender activists and fans who wanted transgender actor Hunter Schafer, known for "Euphoria," to play Zelda, citing Schafer's resemblance to the character. However, Nintendo has always maintained that Zelda is a female character, not transgender, a stance supported by many fans and Miyamoto himself. Critics of the transgender activist response argue that the push for Schafer ignores traditional casting processes and the importance of acting ability, while pointing out inconsistencies in demands for representation. The controversy highlights ongoing cultural debates over casting authenticity, identity politics, and the interpretation of beloved video game characters. Despite social media uproar, the film is slated for a May 2027 release and is expected to expand Nintendo's cinematic universe following the success of "The Super Mario Bros. Movie."