Summary
Disney’s live-actionHerculesis in the works, and Danny DeVito is rumored to be in talks to play his character from the animated film in the remake.
Disneyis continuing with its profitable decision to remake its animated classics into live-action blockbusters. Four of its previous live-action remakes have crossed the billion-dollar mark. Although their most recent try withThe Little Mermaiddidn’t compare to others likeAladdinat the box office, remakes have proven to be the path forward for Disney. It was announced recently that before the actors’ strike, Disney had been eyeingTaron Egerton to play the role of Herculesand for Ariana Grande to play the role of Meg.
Related:Russo Brothers Say Live Adaptation of Hercules Will Be ‘Experimental’ Musical Inspired by TikTok
According to a report byToonado, right before the actors went on strike, DeVito was in talks with Disney to reprise his role as Philocetes, the grumpy satyr who helps Hercules grow into the hero he becomes by the end of the film. When the live-action remake was first announced, fans took to social media to voice their opinion on whyDeVito should return as Phil in theHerculesremake, with some fans even threatening to boycott the film if he isn’t cast.
In an interview withWired, a year ago, DeVito was asked if he would be in the film. He responded, “I am the live-action Hercules! What are you talkin' about? Philoctetes! If they don’t put me in that, they don’t have a hair on their a–!” DeVito seems enthusiastic about returning to play Phil and fans are also excited about his return, so hopefully, that will be enough for Disney to cast him in the upcoming remake.
Herculescurrently has a lot of Disney and Marvel talent attached to the film.Aladdindirector Guy Ritchie will directHercules, withShang Chi and the Legend of the Ten Ringswriter David Callaham working on the script for the film before the writers’ strike. Additionally, long-time Marvel directors Joe and Anthony Russo will produce the film.
A lot of talent is attached to the live-actionHercules, but the billion-dollar factor may come down to whether DeVito returns to play Phil. While the actors’ strike continues, with little end in sight, fans must wait a while before these casting rumors get confirmed.
