Michael B Jordan Rumored to Play Hercules in Live Action Version, Disney Faces Criticism

Kapanlagi.com - Written by Rachel Carisa Oswandi

Disney once again successfully sparked debates on social media since rumors of actor Michael B. Jordan being chosen as Hercules for the next live-action project circulated. Although it's just a rumor, many netizens wouldn't be surprised if Michael really will portray the character from Greek mythology. Considering the previous controversies surrounding Disney's live-action projects such as THE LITTLE MERMAID and SNOW WHITE, where the main cast differed greatly from the original story.

This film is an adaptation of Disney's 1997 animation that highlights the character Hercules, a half-god human. This figure, also known as Herakles, is the greatest hero in Greek mythology and serves as an inspirational figure for the Roman emperor. Set in Ancient Greece, in the animated version, Hercules struggles to control his divine powers while uncovering his origins.

The original version of HERCULES was quite popular at that time, so many are looking forward to its live-action remake. According to The Publica, in 2021, leaked information from Disney revealed that they were "looking for a non-white actor for the lead role." Although they claim that they "do not rule out the possibility of casting a white actor," Hollywood film industry insider Daniel Richtman speculates that Disney is "actively seeking actors of color to lead the live-action remake."

1. Criticism from the Public

Michael B. Jordan in CREED II (imdb.com)

Although the appointment of Michael B. Jordan is still a rumor, social media X (Twitter) is already filled with criticism and debates by netizens. Most of them have a problem with Jordan not being Greek, considering that Hercules is a historical figure.

"I like MBJ but there is one problem, HE IS NOT GREEK!" wrote @fre***.

"Instead of Disney appropriating the story of a white historical character, why don't they create a new story with a completely new character?" asked @Con***.

“Why didn't they choose a GREEK actor for that role?

Far from representation.” wrote @Nae***.

2. Appointment of Taron Egerton

Taron Egerton in ROBIN HOOD (imdb.com/Larry Horricks)

In addition to the actor from the movie BLACK PANTHER, Taron Egerton, the actor from the movie KINGSMAN, is also being considered as another option to play Hercules. Since the rumor of Disney releasing a live-action version of HERCULES in 2021, many fans have suggested Taron to portray the demigod.

3. Jordan Likely to Decline

Michael B. Jordan (©AFP)

Considering that the casting for the live-action HERCULES is not yet fully confirmed, there is a possibility that the role may not go to Jordan. As reported by Pirates and Princesses, Jordan may decline the role of Hercules as he was previously asked if he wanted to portray Superman. 

Jordan stated that if he were to do it, he would not play the Clark Kent version but the Calvin Ellis version, where the character is black. Jordan "prefers to do something original." So if offered the role of Hercules, he would choose a more original character with a unique story.

(kpl/rcl)