Masi Oka Eyed for Tingle Role in Zelda Movie

Excitement is building around the upcoming live-action adaptation of The Legend of Zelda, and fans are buzzing with anticipation about the casting choices. Among the many questions surrounding the film, one intriguing query is who will embody the quirky character of Tingle. Takaya Imamura, the creator of Tingle, has recently shared his dream casting for this beloved role.

Takaya Imamura Revealed His Dream Pick for Tingle in Zelda Movie

Don’t Worry; It’s Not Jason Momoa Nor Jack Black

Speculation abounds about who will take on the iconic roles of Link and Princess Zelda. Will Link wield the Master Sword with finesse? Will Zelda dazzle in a flowing gown or a warrior's attire? Amidst these discussions, the spotlight also turns to the whimsical Tingle. Will this balloon-loving character make it to the big screen, and if so, who should slip into his green tights?

In a recent interview with VGC, Takaya Imamura unveiled his ideal choice for Tingle: "Masi Oka," he stated. "You know the TV series Heroes? The Japanese character who goes 'yatta!'—I’d like him to do it."

Masi Oka gained fame for his role as Hiro Nakamura in Heroes, captivating audiences with his infectious enthusiasm and comedic timing. His performances have since spanned a diverse array of films and series, including action-packed movies like Bullet Train and The Meg, as well as the acclaimed Hawaii Five-O reboot. Oka's energetic portrayal and his iconic "yatta!" pose from Heroes resonate well with Tingle's exuberant personality and unique poses in the game's artwork.

While it remains uncertain whether director Wes Ball will heed Imamura's suggestion or even include Tingle in the film, the director's vision of a "live-action Miyazaki" style for the Zelda movie offers hope. Tingle's whimsical nature aligns well with the enchanting worlds often crafted by Hayao Miyazaki, suggesting a potential fit within the film's narrative.

The live-action Legend of Zelda movie was officially announced in November 2023, with Wes Ball set to direct and Shigeru Miyamoto and Avi Arad as producers. In March 2024, Ball expressed his commitment to the project, stating, "I want to fulfill people’s greatest desires. I know it’s important, this [Zelda] franchise, to people and I want it to be a serious movie."

For further updates and insights into the Legend of Zelda live-action film, be sure to explore our comprehensive coverage below!