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Manila Bulletin devider Entertainment devider Movies and TV devider Charles Melton in talks to play Kakashi in live action 'Naruto' film

Charles Melton in talks to play Kakashi in live action 'Naruto' film

Published Aug 22, 2026 04:04 pm

Actor Charles Melton is reportedly in talks to play one of the most recognizable characters in the upcoming live action adaptation of "Naruto," directed by "Spider Man: Brand New Day" filmmaker Destin Daniel Cretton.

According to reports from The Hollywood Reporter and Variety, Melton is in final negotiations to portray Kakashi Hatake, the mentor of Naruto Uzumaki, Sasuke Uchiha and Sakura Haruno, collectively known as Team 7.

If confirmed, Melton would be the first reported cast member attached to Cretton’s live action "Naruto" movie following the director’s recent global casting search for the roles of Naruto, Sasuke and Sakura.

Melton rose to prominence through The CW’s "Riverdale" and has since taken on roles in films and series including "May December" and the second season of "Beef," earning an Emmy nomination for the latter. 

Melton was also part of internet rumors that he was cast as Beast for the upcoming X-Men film, although it was not confirmed as he did not join the principal cast announcement made at D23 on August 14, 2026. 

Cretton, meanwhile, is coming off "Spider Man: Brand New Day." He previously directed "The Glass Castle," "Just Mercy" and Marvel Studios’ "Shang Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings."

Cretton also has the backing of Naruto creator Masashi Kishimoto, who previously praised the director’s ability to create character driven dramas.

“After enjoying his other films and understanding that his forte is in creating solid dramas about people, I became convinced that there is no other director for Naruto,” Kishimoto said when Cretton’s involvement was announced.

The filmmaker joined the Naruto project in 2024 after Lionsgate spent years attempting to develop a live action adaptation. The project was first pursued by the studio about a decade ago.

Production on the live action Naruto film is reportedly not expected to begin until around February 2027. Lionsgate has yet to officially confirm Melton’s casting.

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