
TV Tokyo
The Hidden Leaf Village is looking for new residents.
After years of anticipation, the live-action adaptation of Naruto has officially begun its worldwide hunt for the actors who will portray its iconic trio—Naruto Uzumaki, Sasuke Uchiha and Sakura Haruno.
Backed by Lionsgate, the project has opened a global casting search for Team 7, with additional roles expected to be announced once the central cast has been finalized. At the helm is Destin Daniel Cretton, who is writing and directing the film following his work on "Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings" and the forthcoming "Spider-Man: Brand New Day."
“Kishimoto-sensei’s stories have inspired generations of fans around the world, and it’s an honor to bring his world and characters to the big screen in live action for the very first time,” Cretton said. “I’m thrilled to kick off this worldwide casting search for our Team 7 and to bring the incredible universe of ‘Naruto’ to life!”
Series creator Masashi Kishimoto also shared his excitement over the adaptation, describing the project as another remarkable milestone in the journey of his beloved manga.
“Right now, miracles are happening to me, one after another. My work, ‘Naruto’ is truly, truly becoming a Hollywood movie! I am eagerly looking forward to the miraculous encounters that will bring us extraordinary and passionate actors! I cannot wait to meet my characters in the film!”
First announced in 2024, the adaptation brings one of the world's most successful manga franchises to Hollywood. The original series has sold more than 250 million copies across over 60 countries and follows the journey of aspiring ninja Naruto Uzumaki as he dreams of one day becoming Hokage, the leader and protector of his village.
The film is being produced by Avi Arad, Ari Arad, Emmy Yu and Jeremy Latcham, with Cretton and Jeyun Munford producing through Hisako. A previous attempt to launch the adaptation dates back to 2014.