Charles Melton Reportedly in Final Negotiations to Play Kakashi in Destin Daniel Cretton’s Naruto Movie
Charles Melton is in final negotiations to play Kakashi in Destin Daniel Cretton’s upcoming live-action Naruto film. According to The Hollywood Reporter, the actor is in the final stages of contract discussions to secure the role of the iconic masked shinobi.
Melton’s casting aligns with his demonstrated passion for anime. The actor, best known for his roles in Beef Season 2 and Riverdale, is a self-described avid anime fan and manga reader. In an April interview with The New Yorker, Melton revealed that his anime consumption is so intense he often watches until 4 a.m. almost every other day. His favorite series include Dragon Ball Z, Demon Slayer, and Jujutsu Kaisen, which he considers essential to understanding the medium.
Kakashi Hatake is one of the Naruto franchise’s most beloved characters—a skilled shinobi defined by his white hair, covered face, and stoic personality. Melton’s established anime fandom provides credibility for the role, suggesting he brings genuine understanding of both the character and the source material to the adaptation.