Original 'Avatar' cast demands theatrical release after movie leak

Avatar Aang: The Last Airbender is facing growing calls for a theatrical release after a major online leak drew millions of viewers.

Original cast members have joined fans in urging studios to reconsider its planned Paramount+ debut, according to Collider.

The animated film, set years after Avatar: The Last Airbender, features an older Aang and continues the story following the defeat of Fire Lord Ozai. Despite originally being intended for cinemas, the project is currently scheduled to premiere on streaming on October 9, 2026.

During a panel at Supanova Melbourne, original voice actors including Zach Tyler Eisen, Jack De Sena, Michaela Jill Murphy, Jennie Kwan, and Olivia Hack addressed the leak. While some acknowledged briefly viewing portions of the footage, they emphasized that the film’s visuals deserve a big-screen experience.

The new cast includes Eric Nam as Aang, alongside Dave Bautista and Steven Yeun. The Avatar franchise, which began in 2005, remains highly influential, with expansions like Avatar: The Legend of Korra and the upcoming Avatar: Seven Havens.

The leak has also raised concerns within the animation industry, with creators criticizing the spread of unauthorized content. Despite this, the situation has intensified demand for a theatrical release, highlighting the franchise’s enduring global popularity.