Princess Zelda may not be the traditional main character of The Legend of Zelda series, but her importance is integral to the franchise. This is why the casting of the titular character needs to be perfect, and the actor should have a lasting presence that is felt even when they aren’t on the screen.
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Zelda is often portrayed as the holder of the Triforce of Wisdom, so it’s a given that the actor must have enough range to portray the character as intelligent and rational. It isn’t confirmed which Zelda game will be adapted into the live-action The Legend of Zelda movie, but the princess’ presence will be integral to establishing the overall plot and tone.
8
Emma Watson
Hermione Granger
Emma Watson has starred in multiple roles since her stint as Hermione Granger in the Harry Potter movies, but she is still lovingly remembered as the genius wizard. The biggest tool in Emma’s arsenal to portray the regal Zelda is her accent. The actor’s voice and her way of talking exude nobility, which is perfect for the princess of Hyrule.
Emma Watson played Belle in Beauty and the Beast and made the classic character stronger and more independent. That’s not to say the actor failed to show the character’s vulnerable side, but the approach she took with Belle is something similar to Princess Zelda. The wise princess, while vulnerable at times, uses her courage and strength to overcome obstacles.
7
Saoirse Ronan
Eilis Lacey
Fans have been rallying behind Saoirse Ronan for the role of Princess Zelda for a long time. Some may argue that the actor has surpassed the character in age, but her looks are a significant factor in her maybe having a shot at the part. Saoirse Ronan has starred in countless movies over the years, and her diverse portfolio suggests she may have the capability to portray the princess accurately.
Saoirse Ronan has played everything from a coming-of-age young adult to the Queen of Scots and everything in between. The actor has significant experience with differing roles that could help her bring Zelda to life. Pair that with her physical appearance, and she may be able to land the role.
6
Sophie Turner
Sansa Stark
The Queen in the North, Sophie Turner, would make an amazing Princess Zelda. As arguably one of the best female characters in Game of Thrones, she learned to become a wise leader and earned her crown. While her portrayal of Sansa Stark is shown as an intelligent politician, she isn’t a fighter.
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However, Sophie Turner has played other roles, such as Jean Gray in the X-Men movies, which show she is a force to be reckoned with. Sophie Turner also matches the physical appearance of Princess Zelda, and her diverse roles show that she may be a good casting for The Legend of Zelda’s live-action movie.
5
Anya Taylor-Joy
Elizabeth Harmon
Anya Taylor-Joy has already joined the Nintendo cinematic universe by voicing Princess Peach in the animated The Super Mario Bros. Movie. This factor could work in her favor or against her, depending on Nintendo’s take on it. The actor’s Peach received divided reviews, with many appreciating the empowered and modern portrayal of the princess.
While Peach is known for being a damsel in distress and having a more bubbly personality, Zelda is a wise and outgoing ruler who loves her people. Anya Taylor-Joy’s portrayal of the orphan Elizabeth Harmon in The Queen’s Gambit may be closest to a role similar to that of Princess Zelda. The actor displayed her character’s struggle perfectly, which shows she can take on the part of Zelda without much trouble.
4
Lily James
Cinderella
Lily James has experience with portraying the role of a princess, as she acted in Cinderella. Compared to the fiery Zelda, Lily’s Cinderella is significantly meek, but the actor has more films in her portfolio that show she can become Hyrule’s princess. She portrayed the femme fatale in Baby Driver and Pamela Anderson in the biographical drama series Pam & Tommy.
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Lily James has shown her massive range of acting throughout her career with the diverse roles she has taken, which makes her a good contender for Princess Zelda. Pair that with the actor’s classy look, and she could easily portray Hyrule’s beloved princess. Of course, it helps that her portrayal of Cinderella proves she can pull off the elegant princess look.
3
McKenna Grace
Paige Swanson
McKenna Grace not only matches the blonde with the blue-eyed look of Princess Zelda, but her roles have also displayed that she shines even with multiple cast members on screen. In Young Sheldon, viewers arguably preferred her genius character, Paige Swanson, to the titular character of Sheldon. This is a significant feat as being able to outshine the main character of a show isn’t easy.
Her portrayal of Phoebe Spengler in the Ghostbusters sequels earned her praise and she managed to hold her own and resonate with the new generation. Another strong point in McKenna’s favor is her age, as she would more appropriately portray Zelda and could continue to do so throughout the reported trilogy. If the live-action The Legend of Zelda movie adapts Ocarina of Time, then the actor could successfully portray Zelda in her childhood age as well as her adulthood.
2
Elle Fanning
Princess Aurora
Elle Fanning already has experience playing regal roles, so Princess Zelda won’t be something out of the norm for her. The actor has starred as Princess Aurora in Disney’s Maleficent movies and Catherine the Great in Hulu’s historical fiction drama series. She showcased her versatility by embodying the essence of a Disney princess and also portraying the real-life princess Catherine with ease.
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This makes Elle Fanning a strong choice for Princess Zelda, who exudes a simple and classy appearance but also inspires others. In The Legend of Zelda, Link is typically portrayed as the silent hero who relies on his trusty sword, but the princess is the one who makes the story emotional and engaging. If the movie’s version of Zelda is similar to her Breath of the Wild counterpart, then there is no doubt this actor will be perfect to deliver an emotional performance.
1
Hunter Schafer
Jules Vaughn
Hunter Schafer may be the best choice for the role of Zelda because of how eerily similar she looks to the princess, with distinct elven features. The actor came into the limelight when she starred as Jules Vaughn in HBO’s Euphoria. She played her part to perfection and displayed her acting prowess, receiving much acclaim.
Princess Zelda isn’t your typical damsel in distress, so the actor portraying her needs to match her personality. Hunter has showcased her diverse range by starring in The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds, but the biggest thing she brings to the table is likely her physical appearance. The actor has also gone on record to express her excitement at fans wanting her to play the role and claimed she has been playing Zelda games since childhood.
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