Zelda Creator Seeks Actor Masi Oka for Film's Tingle

Takaya Imamura, the creator of the eccentric Zelda character Tingle, has revealed his top choice to portray the character in the upcoming live-action film adaptation! Find out who he envisions bringing Tingle to life.

Imamura's Ideal Tingle: Not Momoa or Black

The highly anticipated Legend of Zelda movie has fans buzzing with questions. Who will wield the Master Sword? What will Zelda's attire be? But amidst the speculation surrounding Link and Zelda, a crucial question remains: will Tingle, the balloon-loving enigma, appear? And if so, who should play him? Imamura's answer is clear.

In a recent interview with VGC, Imamura stated, "Masi Oka." He continued, referencing Oka's role in the TV series Heroes: "You know the TV series Heroes? The Japanese character who goes ‘yatta!’, I’d like him to do it."

Oka, famous for his memorable portrayal of Hiro Nakamura in Heroes, boasts a diverse acting resume. His credits range from action films like Bullet Train and The Meg to the acclaimed reboot of Hawaii Five-O. His comedic timing and vibrant energy are a perfect fit for Tingle's unique personality. Furthermore, Hiro's signature "yatta!" pose bears a striking resemblance to Tingle's poses in various artwork.

Whether director Wes Ball will heed Imamura's suggestion, or even include Tingle in the film, remains uncertain. However, Ball previously described the movie as a "live-action Miyazaki" film, and Tingle's whimsical antics could certainly align with the often fantastical nature of Miyazaki's work.

Announced in November 2023, the Legend of Zelda live-action movie is directed by Wes Ball and produced by Shigeru Miyamoto and Avi Arad. Ball expressed his commitment to the project in March 2024, stating, "I want to fulfill people’s greatest desires... I know it’s important, this [Zelda] franchise, to people and I want it to be a serious movie."