Henry Cavill is swapping his superhero cape for a massive robot as he takes on a lead role in a live-action film adaptation of Voltron. According to The Hollywood Reporter, the project will be helmed by director Rawson Marshall Thurber, in collaboration with Amazon MGM Studios.
This announcement follows closely on the heels of casting news, with Daniel Quinn-Toye, who served as an understudy for Tom Holland in the West End production of Romeo & Juliet, securing a significant part in the Voltron ensemble.
Voltron originated from a popular animated series in the 1980s, conceived by Toei Animation and produced by Peter Keefe and Ted Koplar of World Events Productions. The storyline revolves around a group of five pilots who command robot lions that unite to form the formidable Voltron. The animated series was inspired by two Japanese mecha anime shows: Beast King GoLion and Armored Fleet Dairugger XV. The franchise’s success has generated various spin-off series, comic books, video games, and a beloved toy line.
Rawson Marshall Thurber, noted for directing several films starring Dwayne Johnson, such as Central Intelligence, Skyscraper, and Netflix’s record-setting blockbuster, Red Notice, has co-written the script for Voltron alongside Ellen Shanman. However, specific plotdetails are still under wraps. The film’s production team includes Thurber, Hidden Picture, Bob Koplar, and David Hoberman.
EXCL: Henry Cavill to star in live-action VOLTRON movie for Amazon MGM and director Rawson Marshall Thurber. https://t.co/MIemvxHG33
— Borys Kit (@Borys_Kit) October 10, 2024
Since departing from the DC Universe, Cavill has been featured in two films set for release in 2024: Argylle and The Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare. He also made a brief cameo as Wolverine in Deadpool & Wolverine. Additionally, Cavill wrapped up his role in the final season of The Witcher before passing the mantle to Liam Hemsworth.
Looking ahead, Cavill is set to star in Guy Ritchie’s In the Grey, scheduled for release on January 17, 2025. He will also take on the lead role in Chad Stahelski’s Highlander and will be involved as both star and executive producer for live-action adaptations of the Warhammer 40,000 video game series.