The official Naruto website announced on July 10 that Lionsgate has launched a worldwide casting search for the roles of Naruto Uzumaki, Sasuke Uchiha, and Sakura Haruno in its live-action film.
The announcement also revealed that casting for additional characters will be announced at a later date.
In a statement accompanying the casting announcement, director Daniel Cretton reflected on Naruto‘s global impact and said he was honored to bring Kishimoto’s world to live action.
“Kishimoto-sensei’s stories have inspired generations of fans around the world, and it’s an honor to bring his world and characters to the big screen in live action for the very first time. I’m thrilled to kick off this worldwide casting search for our Team 7 and to bring the incredible universe of Naruto to life!“
Naruto creator Masashi Kishimoto also shared a statement celebrating the latest milestone for the upcoming adaptation.
“Right now, miracles are happening to me, one after another. My work, Naruto, is truly, truly becoming a Hollywood movie! And an even greater miracle is that the film will be directed by the one and only Destin Daniel Cretton. I still cannot believe it! If so many miracles have already come together, then let us hope for even more. I am eagerly looking forward to the miraculous encounters that will bring us extraordinary and passionate actors! I cannot wait to meet my characters in the film!“
Lionsgate first announced the live-action adaptation in 2015.
Cretton was revealed as the film’s director in 2024, with Kishimoto stating at the time that he was confident Cretton would be the right person to helm the project after meeting with him.
Source: Official Website
