Discovering the Perfect Actor for Hades: A Disney Hercules Live-Action Remake

Disney's iconic animated film Hercules is set to receive a live-action remake. As such, the search for the ideal actor to portray Hades, the king of the underworld, becomes a crucial decision. Let's explore a few potential candidates who could bring this mythical figure to life.

John Lithgow: Revisiting a Mythological Legacy

John Lithgow, the original actor assigned to play Hades in the animated series, should have the chance to return to the role. However, his portrayal shouldn't be as the villainous counterpart to Hercules. While Hades is not equivalent to Satan in Hellenic mythology, Lithgow's ability to embody a complex character would make for a compelling performance.

James Woods: An Established Voice and a Fiery Presence

James Woods enjoys voicing the character, and his enthusiasm for the role is well-documented. Despite his controversial past, his enthusiastic commitment to Hades would be a boon to the project. If Disney opts for a different actor, Woods' absence would only make the remake less complete.

James Marsden: A Charming and Challenging Hades

James Marsden stands out as a compelling candidate for the role of Hades. Already renowned for his portrayal of Prince Edward in Disney's Enchanted, he brings a wide range of characteristics to the table: charming, humorous, and sexy, all of which are essential traits for Hades. His credentials and the potential for these attributes to make Hades an engaging and dynamic character make him an excellent choice.

Additionally, Marsden's dramatic abilities could be showcased through a potential musical sequence. His previous singing contributions in shows like Ally McBeal, Hairspray, and Straw Dogs demonstrate his vocal prowess. His performance in Bella Mafia also supports this notion, where he initially charms the audience before unveiling a darker side to his character.

Luke Evans and Mark Strong: Untapped Potential

There seems to be a debate between Luke Evans and Mark Strong for the role of Hades. Both actors bring a level of intensity and talent to the table, making them strong contenders. Their ability to convey the weight and complexity of the character makes them suitable choices for the role.

Brad Garrett: Biting the Mythological Bullet

Brad Garrett, known for his comedy roles, could bring a new dimension to the character of Hades. His dramatic work, particularly in series like Broadway Meets Hollywood and My Name Is Earl, showcases a level of malice and evil that could make Hades both imposing and terrifying. His ability to switch between comedic and dramatic roles could provide a unique and compelling portrayal of the underworld king.

Roger Bart: The Original Voice and Stage Prodigy

Lastly, Roger Bart, the original singing voice of Herc in the animated series, could be a strong choice for Hades. He is set to join the public theater in NYC for Disney's new musical, showcasing his vocal and theatrical skills. While his physical appearance may not perfectly match the traditional portrayal of Hades, his acting and singing abilities compensate for this. His eccentricity and charm make him a fitting candidate for the role.