Rick Riordan‘s Percy Jackson and the Olympians series casts John Wick’s Lance Reddick and James Bond’s Toby Stephens as gods. The author writes of the two being on board to star in the Disney Plus series based on his Greek mythology-inspired novels.
Demigods, the term the author calls fans of the series’ literary source, have been at the edge of their seats following the production updates from Riordan. For a considerable amount of time, they even entertained the idea of having Logan Lerman as Poseidon.
According to them, Lerman, being the previous Percy Jackson in Disney’s movies back in 2010 and 2013, would have made a great Poseidon. Mainly because the god is Percy’s father. Some have even pointed out his visual similarities with the series’ Percy Jackson, Walker Scobell, and Lerman.
But alas! The production has spoken, and the gods are now cast. Fans may be disappointed, but they are not against the casting of Stephens for the role itself. It was simply just a nice idea to think about at the time for them.
Percy Jackson Series Has John Wick’s Lance Reddick And James Bond’s Toby Stephens
READ MORE: Disney Plus’ Percy Jackson Adds 5 To Cast As Production Starts
Author Rick Riordan himself posted in his official blog about the cast, stating that the lineup of Greek gods is complete… for now. In his update, he even mentioned he wrapped things up with his latest novel for the literary series entitled Percy Jackson and the Olympians: The Chalice of the Gods. More importantly, the principal photography of the Disney Plus series adaptation of his books is ‘only days away’ from completion.
Thus, he delighted in introducing Lance Reddick as Zeus and Toby Stephens as Poseidon in the series. He disclosed that they were the two major characters who appeared in the latter part of the season.
Award-winning actor Lance Reddick has built a reputation for his enigmatic presence. This is something that can be a major factor being Zeus. As Charon in the John Wick franchise, he has showcased a character that is dignified, dependable and quietly capable.
Credit: Summit Entertainment
Although Zeus, as leader of the council, has proven to display some weakness towards his affection towards women, he is still a formidable Greek god. And certain literature can depict him as passing ruthless judgement. Riordan’s novels portray him similarly.
Meanwhile, Poseidon, who will be portrayed by Toby Stephens, has another layer to his character under Riordan’s pen. Being Percy’s father, even though he appears sporadically throughout the novels, he has another layer of emotional connection to the series’ main protagonist.
The actor will definitely meet the challenge as he has proven his capabilities as early as his portrayal of Gustav Graves in the James Bond movie Die Another Day starring Pierce Brosnan in 2002. The role got him his first nomination for the Saturn Award for Best Supporting Actor from the Academy of Science Fiction, Fantasy & Horror Films in the U.S.
Percy Jackson Series Is About to Complete Principle Photography
Credit: Netflix
READ MORE: Percy Jackson Series Casts The Adam Project Star In Lead Role
No doubt, both casting as all the other characters will be on point. Riordan keeps his demigod fans updated through his blog. He even gives some sneak peek into the behind-the-scenes during their preparations.
Personally, the fact that Riordan writes ‘the season’ not ‘the series’ in his blog entries gives me high hopes for more seasons in the future. In fact, he closes his latest entry by stating:
More later, demigods, but I am pleased to tell you we are in a very good place as we look ahead to a (not-yet-greenlit-but-fully-anticipated) season two!
About a year before its premiere, it already seems to shape up to be the best adaptation of his writing yet.
Of course, the previous movies were also good in their own merit, but the fact that the author himself is deeply involved in the production of the series means a whole godly lot. Regarding vision and creative freedom, Riordan has been there from day 1.
What are your thoughts about this announcement of the Percy Jackson series cast? Tell us your thoughts in the comments below.
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