Beef star Charles Melton is reportedly in talks to play the role of the beloved character Kakashi in the upcoming live-action Naruto movie. The news has led the Naruto fanbase to share their views online, and they’re all saying the same thing. Spider-Man: Brand New Day director Destin Daniel Cretton is directing, writing, and producing the project.

Fans react to Charles Melton’s casting as Kakashi in live-action Naruto movie

A recent report by The Hollywood Reporter stated that actor Charles Melton is currently the top candidate to play Kakashi in the Naruto live-action movie. Sources told the outlet that the talks between Melton and producers regarding the role have reached the final stage.

Lionsgate announced the live-action movie was in development in 2024. After the news of Melton’s potential casting broke, many anime and manga fans took to social media to share their thoughts. While some seemed impressed with the casting, many argued whether a Japanese actor would’ve been a better fit for the role.

A user seemed disappointed by the update and wrote on X, “i thought they would use japanese actors but, okay,” followed by a crying emoji.

Another fan questioned why Netflix’s One Piece live-action star, Mackenyu, was not considered for the role. They commented, “Why not Mackenyu Arata? I mean he’s more handsome and attractive than Charles Melton who look like 50 years old.”

A third user stated, “There surely had to be better options.”

User named Spruce suggested Japanese actor Takeru Satoh would’ve been the perfect fit and wrote, “Takeru satoh is the best fit for the role he has the same height as kakashi sensei and he even did the live action of rurouni kenshin.”

A fan named Ricky Rick expressed their frustration. They claimed that Melton as Kakashi would be an “injustice” to the character. They added, “Whoever is behind it has to be the biggest clown ever! Why would an american play one of the biggest character to ever exist instead of a japanese one?”

The recent update is the first news that fans have gotten about the potential live-action cast. The movie announced a global casting search in July.

Originally reported by Ishita Verma on SuperHeroHype.