'Naruto' movie launches global casting search for Team 7
The live-action Naruto movie has launched a worldwide casting search to find actors for Naruto, Sasuke, and Sakura—the three leads of Team 7. Lionsgate's adaptation of Masashi Kishimoto's manga marks the franchise's first Hollywood live-action film, with Destin Daniel Cretton writing and directing.
The Naruto movie launches global talent scouting at a pivotal moment for anime-to-live-action projects. After Lionsgate announced the film in February 2024, production is now moving from development into the casting phase that will define how fans see these iconic characters on screen.
Key Takeaways
- Lionsgate's live-action Naruto film is seeking three lead actors worldwide for Team 7: Naruto, Sasuke, and Sakura.
- Destin Daniel Cretton, director of Marvel's Shang-Chi, is writing and directing the project.
- Supporting-role casting will follow after the three leads are chosen.
- The manga has sold more than 250 million copies across more than 60 countries.
- Lionsgate previously attempted a Naruto movie in 2014 with Michael Gracey attached to direct.
Why Is the Naruto Movie Launching a Global Casting Search Now?
According to Variety, the live-action Naruto movie is launching a worldwide casting search to find its three leading actors. The adaptation of Masashi Kishimoto's classic manga is backed by Lionsgate, and the search will fill the core Team 7 roles before additional casting for supporting characters begins.
Destin Daniel Cretton, the filmmaker behind Marvel's Shang-Chi and the upcoming Spider-Man: Brand New Day, is writing and directing the project. In a statement, Cretton said Kishimoto's stories have inspired generations of fans and called it an honor to bring the world to the big screen in live action for the first time.
Who Is Behind the Live-Action Naruto Adaptation?
Avi Arad, Ari Arad, and Emmy Yu will produce for Arad Productions alongside Jeremy Latcham. Cretton is producing with Jeyun Munford through his company, Hisako. Cretton previously collaborated with Lionsgate on The Glass Castle.
Kishimoto, who created the original manga, expressed excitement about the project. He said Naruto is truly becoming a Hollywood movie and that he is eagerly looking forward to meeting the actors who will bring his characters to life on screen.
What Should Fans Know About the Naruto Franchise?
Lionsgate announced the live-action Naruto movie in February 2024. The manga has printed over 250 million copies in more than 60 countries and territories. It follows adolescent ninja Naruto Uzumaki, who dreams of becoming his community's protector and leader known as the village ninja.
This is not Lionsgate's first attempt at the property. The studio previously tried to get a Naruto movie off the ground in 2014, when it signed Michael Gracey to direct. For more updates on casting news and streaming adaptations, follow our Streaming & TV Alerts coverage.
When Will We Learn Who Plays Naruto, Sasuke, and Sakura?
Variety did not announce a timeline for casting decisions or a release date. With the worldwide search now underway for Team 7, supporting-role casting is expected to follow once the leads are set. Fans worldwide will be watching closely as Hollywood's first live-action Naruto film takes its next major step toward production.