The Golden Globe-winning 'Elvis' actor is said to be a strong contender to play the Greek hero in the upcoming live-action remake, which is going to be directed by Guy Ritchie.
- October 28, 2023
AceShowbiz - Austin Butler may need to bulk up for his next role. The actor, who is best known for his portrayal of Elvis Presley in Baz Luhrmann's biopic "Elvis", is now reported to be the frontrunner to play Hercules in Disney's upcoming live-action movie.
It's The DisInsider (via Pop Tingz) which spilled the beans on the Golden Globe-winning actor's possible involvement in the new Hercules project. The report, however, did not disclose whether the studio has officially extended an offer to Butler or if it has only been talks among the studio execs.
Many liked the news after it was reposted on several social media accounts, but not a few have opposed the possible casting of Butler as Hercules. "Hercules is muscular not thin," one person pointed out why the "Once Upon a Time in Hollywood" star may not fir the role.
"He's not even buff, they might as well get Troye Sivan for the role," a second commenter quipped. A third chimed in as saying, "Maybe Hercules if he was a twink." A fourth simply said, "respectfully no," while another suggested, "ok how about actually casting Greeks for the roles instead."
Prior to this, it was said that Taron Egerton and Ariana Grande were circling roles in the new "Hercules" remake. According to insider DanielRPK on Patreon (via Cultura Colectiva), the Welsh actor was eyed for the titular role of the mighty Hercules. As for Grande, she was reportedly being considered for the role of Megara, the love interest of the Greek hero.
Another actor rumored to star in the film was Danny DeVito. The veteran actor may play Phil, Hercules' loyal trainer. The report additionally stated that Disney had been in talks with each of the celebrities to close the deal, but the studio has not officially announced the cast just yet.
Back in November 2022, producer Joe Russo described the live-action "Hercules" movie as "a little bit more experimental in tone, a little bit more experimental in execution" than past live-action adaptations.
He also said that the project is inspired by TikTok. "I think they're excited to see what we can all bring to it in a way that isn't just a reinterpretation of the animated film," the "Avengers: Endgame" co-director teased, before confirming that the upcoming movie will also be a musical.
Guy Ritchie has been tapped to direct the film.
