Full Breakdown
Lionsgate Launches Global Casting Search for Live-Action “Naruto” Film
7/10/2026, 4:28:36 PM
Announcement of Worldwide Casting Call
Lionsgate and director Destin Daniel Cretton announced on Thursday via social media that they will begin a global casting search for the lead roles of Team 7—Naruto, Sasuke and Sakura—in a live-action adaptation of Masashi Kishimoto’s manga series. The studio indicated that casting for additional characters will follow after the three primary roles are filled. The initiative marks the first effort to select actors for a Hollywood version of the franchise.
Production Context
The project is currently in pre-production, with Cretton slated to direct after completing his upcoming film Spider-Man: Brand New Day, scheduled to open on July 31. The live-action adaptation aims to translate the “incredible universe of Naruto” to a global audience, building on the manga’s long-standing popularity.
Official Statements & Responses
Cretton expressed enthusiasm for the undertaking, emphasizing the cultural impact of Kishimoto’s work and the novelty of bringing it to the big screen. Kishimoto welcomed the development, describing the film’s progress as a series of “miracles” and praising Cretton’s involvement. Both parties highlighted the importance of finding “extraordinary and passionate actors” to embody the iconic characters.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Cretton said in the casting call social media announcement: “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.” — Destin Daniel Cretton
- “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. I'm thrilled to kick off this worldwide casting search for our Team 7 and to bring the incredible universe of Naruto to life!” — Destin Daniel Cretton
- “Right now, miracles are happening to me, one after another. My work, Naruto, is truly, truly becoming a Hollywood movie! And an even greater miracle is that the film will be directed by the one and only Destin Daniel Cretton. I still cannot believe it! If so many miracles have already come together, then let us hope for even more. 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!” — Masashi Kishimoto, creator of *Naruto*
- “And an even greater miracle is that the film will be directed by the one and only Destin Daniel Cretton.” — Masashi Kishimoto
