Charles Melton may be the next Kakashi in live-action 'Naruto' movie

Charles Melton is reportedly in close talks to play Kakashi Hatake in the upcoming live-action Naruto movie, directed by Destin Daniel Cretton.

The potential casting comes as Lionsgate continues assembling the cast for its highly anticipated adaptation of the popular manga and anime franchise. The studio has not yet officially confirmed Melton’s involvement.

The live-action Naruto movie is based on Masashi Kishimoto’s acclaimed manga series, which follows Naruto Uzumaki, a young ninja who dreams of becoming the leader and protector of his village. Kakashi Hatake is one of the franchise’s most recognisable characters and serves as an important mentor to Naruto, Sasuke Uchiha and Sakura Haruno.

The project’s casting search began last month as filmmakers looked for actors to portray the central characters. Details surrounding the rest of the cast remain limited as production continues to take shape.

Melton’s potential involvement follows a major period in his career. The actor recently received an Emmy nomination for his performance in the second season of Netflix’s Beef, which also stars Oscar Isaac, Carey Mulligan and Cailee Spaeny.

He has also earned widespread critical recognition for his role in Todd Haynes’ 2023 film May December. His other credits include Warfare, Her Private Hell and the television series Riverdale.

Cretton is directing the Naruto adaptation and is also producing the project. The filmmaker previously directed Marvel’s Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings, as well as Short Term 12, The Glass Castle and Just Mercy.

Avi Arad, Ari Arad and Emmy Yu will produce through Arad Productions, with Jeremy Latcham also attached. Cretton and Jeyun Munford are producing through Cretton’s Hisako company.

The live-action Naruto movie does not yet have an announced release date.