Actor Charles Melton is currently in talks to take on the iconic role of Kakashi Hatake in the upcoming live-action adaptation of Naruto. The feature film project is being directed by Destin Daniel Cretton, who is moving quickly to assemble the key cast for the iconic anime and manga franchise. After intense fan speculation linking Melton to a major comic book superhero project, the actor now appears poised to step into the boots of one of anime's most revered ninja mentors instead.
From Superhero Rumors to Anime Legends
In recent months, internet discussion had centered heavily around whether Melton would join Marvel Studios in Jake Schreier's upcoming MCU X-Men project. Speculation reached a high point heading into D23's X-Cast reveal, where many fans anticipated the actor might be unveiled as the classic hero Beast. However, the event concluded without any announcement regarding Melton's involvement, leaving Marvel's casting for Beast undisclosed. Rather than stepping into the Marvel Cinematic Universe immediately, Melton's immediate focus has shifted toward Cretton's ambitious live-action anime feature.
Building Team 7 and Finding Kakashi
If negotiations wrap up successfully, Melton will portray Kakashi Hatake, the mysterious, silver-haired elite ninja mentor who guides Team 7. Kakashi is responsible for training the young protagonist Naruto Uzumaki alongside his teammates Sasuke Uchiha and Sakura Haruno. The casting process for the franchise is already underway, as the production launched a widespread global search last month to discover fresh talent for the primary trio of young ninja heroes. Landing an actor of Melton's caliber as Kakashi provides a strong anchor for the young prospective cast.
Melton's Rising Career and Cretton's Blockbuster Record
Melton comes to the project following significant critically acclaimed work, including roles in features like May December and Warfare. He also recently earned an Emmy nomination for his performance in the second season of Netflix's dark comedy series Beef. Director Destin Daniel Cretton is entering the project following massive commercial successes. Cretton previously directed Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings and recently saw Spider-Man: Brand New Day cross the $2 billion mark at the global box office. Moving from Marvel blockbusters to the world of ninjas, jutsu techniques, and giant tailed beasts, Cretton aims to bring Naruto to life on a massive cinematic scale.
