Charles Melton Could Play Kakashi Hatake
Following the success of live-action adaptations like Netflix’s Avatar: The Last Airbender and One Piece, Lionsgate is now aiming to bring another beloved manga and anime franchise to the big screen. That project is Naruto, with Destin Daniel Cretton, known for directing Spider-Man: Brand New Day, set to helm the film.
Earlier rumors suggested that casting for Team 7 members Naruto, Sasuke, and Sakura had begun. However, the latest news indicates that the role of the team’s mentor may already be decided.
According to a new report from The Hollywood Reporter, actor Charles Melton is in final negotiations to take on the role of Kakashi Hatake in Lionsgate’s Naruto live-action film.
Charles Melton is best known for his role in Netflix’s series Beef. He has also appeared in projects like History of the World Part II, Warfare, and Her Private Hell. While he has limited anime-related experience, Melton has done voice work in Amazon’s comedy series Kevin.
If confirmed, Melton may portray an older version of Kakashi than the original character. In Naruto, Kakashi is introduced at around 26 years old, while Melton is currently 35.
Kakashi is a Key Ninja in Naruto
Kakashi Hatake is one of Naruto’s most iconic characters and serves as the direct mentor to Team 7 in the story’s early stages. With his extensive combat experience and mastery of the Sharingan, he quickly becomes one of the most formidable ninjas in the Hidden Leaf Village.
In the team’s initial missions, Kakashi not only helps Naruto, Sasuke, and Sakura improve their fighting skills but also teaches them valuable lessons about teamwork.
After Naruto Shippuden concludes, Kakashi even becomes the Sixth Hokage before Naruto officially takes over the role.
The news of Charles Melton potentially playing Kakashi has sparked significant interest among fans. It also signals that the live-action project is starting to assemble its core cast.
However, Lionsgate has yet to officially confirm Melton’s involvement. Fans will need to wait for further announcements from the production team to know for sure who will star in Naruto.