The Perfect Hercules For Disney’s Live-Action Remake Already Played The Character 26 Years Ago

When it comes to who could land the lead role in Disney’s live-action Hercules reboot, the most appropriate selection for the part may have been foreshadowed more than two decades ago Disney’s Hercules is often regarded as one of the best movies based on the Hercules legend, so this upcoming attempt at the story naturally has high expectations to meet. While not too much is known about the Hercules live-action remake, it hasn’t stopped the Hercules cast rumors from swirling.

The biggest question is, of course, who will play the famed demigod. One name stands out as a perfectly fitting choice – Ryan Gosling. Not only is Ryan Gosling a celebrated actor with a proven ability to balance comedy, drama, and even singing, he also has a surprising connection to the character. Long before his breakout roles in films like The Notebook or La La Land, Gosling actually donned the sandals and toga to play Hercules himself in the late ‘90s.

Ryan Gosling Playing Hercules In Disney’s Remake Would Be A Hilarious Full Circle Moment

Ryan Gosling’s Hero’s Journey Could Come Full Circle

Before he became one of Hollywood’s most versatile leading men, Ryan Gosling was the star of Young Hercules, a short-lived TV series from 1998. Set in the same universe as Hercules: The Legendary Journeys and Xena: Warrior Princess, the show followed a teenage Hercules navigating the trials of adolescence while embracing his heroic destiny. Though the series only lasted one season, it has since become a quirky footnote in Gosling’s career. Looking back, Young Hercules was an early showcase of Gosling’s charisma, showing glimpses of the charm and wit that would later define his performances.

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Seeing Gosling return to the character, this time in a high-budget Disney blockbuster, would be a delightful nod to his career’s humble beginnings. The idea of the suave, award-winning actor once again donning Hercules’ sandals is almost too perfect, blending nostalgia with irony in a way that feels tailor-made for modern audiences. It is a wink and a nod that Gosling himself seems to thrive on, especially in roles like Barbie, where he leaned into comedic self-awareness. It’s the kind of casting choice that invites memes, fan edits, and endless buzz online – a crucial factor in the success of Disney’s live-action remakes in the age of social media.

Ryan Gosling Would Actually Be A Great Choice For Disney’s Hercules Live-Action Movie

Ryan Gosling Could Go The Distance

Nostalgia aside, Ryan Gosling brings more than just a fun connection to the role of Disney’s Hercules. Spanning everything from intense dramas (Drive, Blade Runner 2049) to lighthearted comedies (Crazy, Stupid, Love, The Nice Guys), to an award winning musical (La La Land), Ryan Gosling has done a little bit of everything very well. This versatility is crucial for a Disney film and the zero to hero himself, a character who embodies strength, humor, heart, and of course, singing. Gosling’s comedic timing aligns with the playful tone of the original movie, but at the same time, his dramatic chops could bring depth to Hercules’ emotional journey.

Admittedly, there’s one potential hurdle – Gosling’s age. At 43, he’s older than the animated Hercules, who is depicted as a young adult on the cusp of heroism. However, Disney’s live-action remakes often re-imagine their source material, making age less of a limitation. If Disney takes creative liberties with the story, as it did with Aladdin and Mulan, Gosling’s age could open up new storytelling possibilities. Regardless, his proven talent and natural charisma make him a compelling choice for the demigod, even if the film re-imagines the character’s age or backstory.

Ryan Gosling Should Be In The Hercules Movie (Even If Not As The Titular Character)

There Are Plenty Of Gods To Choose From

If Gosling isn’t cast as Hercules, there are plenty of other roles he could tackle in the film. His comedic instincts and willingness to embrace eccentric characters make him a great fit for any number of supporting roles. Imagine Gosling as Phil, the gruff yet endearing satyr who trains Hercules. While Danny DeVito’s performance in the animated film is iconic, Gosling’s unique interpretation could offer a fresh and equally memorable take on the character.

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Another intriguing possibility is casting Gosling as Hades, the film’s flamboyant and quick-witted villain. While traditionally portrayed as older, a younger, more suave Hades could be an interesting departure. Gosling’s ability to blend humor and menace could make for an unforgettable villain. Alternatively, Gosling could take on a more understated role, such as Zeus, Hercules’ adoptive father. He plays a pivotal part in the hero’s journey, and Gosling’s gravitas could add weight to their interactions with Hercules. No matter the role, his inclusion in the cast would undoubtedly elevate the film.

As Disney continues to re-imagine its animated classics, casting decisions will play a crucial role in defining their success. Whether or not Gosling joins the cast of Hercules, his unique history with the character ensures that fans will continue to dream of what could have been.