
Get ready to get teleported to Ancient Greece, because Disney is breathing new life into Hercules! The live-action reboot is officially in the works, and it’s shaping up to be epic. With the Russo Brothers (yes, the geniuses behind Avengers: Endgame) producing and Guy Ritchie (Aladdin, anyone?) directing, this project has Disney fans buzzing like never before.
If you’re anything like me, the 1997 animated classic holds a special place in your heart. From baby Herc’s hilarious hijinks to his heroic rise, the movie was pure magic. Add in the soulful Muses, a fiery villain like Hades, and that unforgettable soundtrack—it’s no wonder this tale has stood the test of time for over two decades.
While we’re still waiting for a release date, the hype is real. So, what can we expect? Let’s dive into everything we know about this highly anticipated reboot—from the powerhouse creative team to casting rumors and why this could be Disney’s next big win.

Disney’s Hercules was released in 1997 and quickly became a fan favorite. It’s a coming-of-age story that blends Greek mythology with humor, music, and heart. The live-action Hercules reboot aims to honor this legacy while giving it a modern twist.
Back in 2022, producers Joe and Anthony Russo, shared that their goal is to keep the humor and subversive edge of the original film, while updating it for today’s audience. According to them;
The remake won’t just replicate the 1997 classic—it’ll bring a fresh perspective, keeping the fun and adventure intact.
The script is being written by Dave Callaham. He is known for his work on Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings. With such a strong Marvel-inspired team behind it, it’s safe to expect a movie packed with action, wit, and emotional depth.
What Was The Original Hercules About?

The movie begins by introducing viewers to the protagonist, Hercules, who is also the son of Zeus and Hera. Despite his seemingly happy life, Hercules actually has an evil uncle named Hades. He tries to strip the protagonist of his immortality. Yet, he fails, and Hercules retains his God-like qualities.
A few years later, Hercules visits Phil so that he can train to become a true hero. There he discover why he cannot control his immense strength. During his training, he meets Hades’ slave Meg, who informs him that Hercules is not dead.
Thus, Hercules must face the demons that his uncle harbors in the underworld. So that he can restore himself as a rightful God and uphold his status over Ancient Greece. But, with very little to support him, it’s clear that Hercules will have a tough fight ahead of him.
A Flash Back To The Hercules Original Cast

Hercules was blessed with an incredible cast of voice actors. These included James Woods, who was best recognized for his work in Reservoir Dogs and Chaplin. The film also casted Susan Egan as Megara. She has also worked on a number of Disney musical adaptions on Broadway such as Beauty and the Beast.
Thus, it’s clear that Disney was well-equipped and managed to make one of the most successful animated films of the late 1990s.
Hercules Reboot: A Modern Spin on the Disney Classic

The film is being made by the Russo brothers, and they revealed in a recent press event that the live-action remake will be a “modern spin” on the original. Keeping the spirit of the animated film, the live-action promises new laughs and new directions. While the live-action film won’t be a direct remake, it will be inspired by the original’s “subversive” humor and story.
Joe Russo told GamesRadar:
It will certainly pay homage to the original with a more modern spin on it. What Anthony and I love about the original is how funny and subversive it is. I think we try to embrace that sense of humor in the remake.
by Joe Russo
The film is filled with gags, laughs, and musical numbers galore. We have yet to hear if the Hercules Reboot will feature musical numbers from the original. Or perhaps, include new numbers to pay homage to the musical talents of Alan Menken and David Zippel.
Everyone Who is Included in the Hercules Reboot Cast

The Hercules live-action cast confirmed so far hasn’t been revealed, but fans are bursting with speculation. Social media has been buzzing with dream cast suggestions, and there are a few frontrunners people are rooting for:
- Hercules: Fans are rallying for Jelani Alladin, who played the role in a stage production, or Zane Phillips, who’s gained attention as a potential fit.
- Megara: Ariana Grande is a top contender after her stunning rendition of “I Won’t Say I’m in Love” during the Disney Family Singalong.
- Phil: Many fans believe there’s no replacing Danny DeVito, who voiced the original Phil. Can you imagine anyone else delivering those sarcastic one-liners?
- Hades: Suggestions include Hugh Jackman or Jim Carrey to bring the character’s snarky and menacing charm to life.
- The Muses: Casting the Muses has sparked the most debate. Names like Lizzo, Jennifer Hudson, and Amber Riley are consistently mentioned. And honestly, they’d be perfect for narrating the action with their powerhouse vocals.
While the live-action Hercules cast remains unconfirmed, it’s clear that fans are hoping Disney hits all the right notes with these key characters.
Ariana Grande as Megara? Read more to find her reaction: Ariana Grande “Flattered” That Disney Fans Want Her for Hercules Reboot
Why the Hercules Reboot Matters?

Disney’s live-action adaptations have been hit or miss. While some, like The Jungle Book and Cruella, were widely praised, others, such as The Lion King, were criticized for feeling unnecessary. The Hercules reboot has the potential to be one of the standouts if it captures the humor and energy that made the original a cult classic.
The Hercules reboot cast will also play a huge role in its success. Disney has the opportunity to bring fresh talent and diverse representation to the screen, which could breathe new life into these timeless characters.
How Will Hercules Live-Action Impact the Original Storyline?

The story of the live-action Hercules likely won’t differ much from the animated original. With most of Disney’s previous live-action adaptations, the remakes have often followed the overarching plot. Such plots laid out by the original Disney films.
However, to appeal to a new audience whilst securing returning fans, Hercules may add additional sequences that showcase CGI improvements, as well as Hercules’ might. The character is based upon the Greek “Twelve Trials of Hercules” legend and this myth forms the basis of Phil’s training in the animated film. A similar structure may serve the live-action Hercules reboot well.
Baby Hercules and Pegasus Deserve Their Spotlight

One thing fans universally agree on is that Baby Hercules and Baby Pegasus need their time to shine. These adorable characters stole hearts in the animated version, and they’re sure to win over a new generation of fans in the Hercules reboot.
Will There Be Classic Hercules Music in the Reboot?
Music is such a huge part of what makes Hercules unforgettable. From the gospel-inspired Muses to Hercules’s heartfelt ballads, the soundtrack is a character in itself. Therefore, fans are crossing their fingers that the live-action version keeps these iconic songs. After all, can you imagine Hercules without the Muses singing “Zero to Hero”?
Audience is not shying away from putting their two-cents in when it comes to how they want the live-action of their beloved movie! So lets check some out;
FAQs
Yes, Disney is working on a live-action Hercules reboot, produced by the Russo Brothers and directed by Guy Ritchie.
The cast hasn’t been confirmed yet, but fan favorites like Danny DeVito and Ariana Grande are being speculated.
Disney hasn’t announced the actor for Hercules yet, but names like Jelani Alladin and Zane Phillips have been discussed.
There’s no official word or indication that Michael B. Jordan is involved in the Hercules reboot.
Hercules was introduced in the MCU with Brett Goldstein playing him in Thor: Love and Thunder.
The original Hercules movie wasn’t canceled; the reboot is simply in development and progressing slowly.
Brett Goldstein portrays Hercules in the MCU, debuting during the post-credits scene of Thor: Love and Thunder.
Yes, Dwayne Johnson starred in the 2014 movie Hercules, directed by Brett Ratner.
Yes, Arnold Schwarzenegger played Hercules in the 1970 film Hercules in New York.
Wrapping Up the Journey!
While we wait for more updates on the Hercules reboot release date and official casting news, the excitement continues to build. Disney has a lot riding on this live-action adaptation, and with the Russo brothers at the helm, there’s reason to be hopeful. Though the excitement isn’t just about nostalgia. We are eager to see how the film will update the story for today’s audience. Will it tackle deeper themes? Will the humor be more modern?
Stay tuned as we wait for more updates on the Hercules live-action release date, and let’s hope Disney delivers a reboot worthy of Mount Olympus!