Will Link Speak in the Legend of Zelda Movie? Patricia Summersett Weighs In

A live-action Legend of Zelda film is in development, sparking excitement and questions among fans. A key point of discussion revolves around the character of Link, specifically whether he will speak in the movie, a departure from his traditionally silent portrayal in the video games. Actress Patricia Summersett, known for voicing Princess Zelda in The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, Hyrule Warriors: Age of Calamity, The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom, and Hyrule Warriors: Age of Imprisonment, recently shared her thoughts on the matter.

Zelda’s Voice Actress Ponders Link’s Dialogue

In an interview with IGN, Summersett expressed her curiosity about how Link will be characterized in the film. She noted the collaborative nature of bringing the franchise to the considerable screen, involving both newcomers and longtime fans. Summersett anticipates a strong and powerful portrayal of Zelda, but remains uncertain about Link’s vocal presence. “Link I have no idea, is he going to speak? They certainly haven’t alluded to the fact that he does, yet,” she stated.

The Precedent of a Silent Protagonist

The question of whether Link should speak is complex. While he remains silent in the core Legend of Zelda games, the player is often prompted with dialogue options representing Link’s responses. This has led some to believe a speaking Link isn’t entirely out of character. However, a completely silent protagonist in a major motion picture is unusual. The short-lived animated adaptation of The Legend of Zelda did feature a speaking Link, but it doesn’t hold the same weight with the fanbase as the video games.

Casting Choices and Accents

IGN also discussed the casting of British actress Bo Bragason as Zelda with Summersett. Some speculated the casting was influenced by Summersett’s decision to use an English accent when voicing the character. Summersett clarified she doesn’t know how casting decisions are made, but acknowledged Bragason’s talent. “Obviously Bo Bragason is going to kill it, she’s going to be amazing. I’m happy to have contributed in any way,” she said. This raises a further question: if Link does speak, will he also have a British accent, or will the film adopt a more flexible approach to accents given the fictional setting?

A Long-Awaited Adaptation

Summersett, who began voicing Zelda in 2017, expressed her amazement at being involved with the franchise for a decade. As a lifelong Nintendo fan, she admitted she is still adjusting to the reality of a Legend of Zelda movie. With Nintendo’s success with The Super Mario Bros. Movie, the possibility of further video game adaptations seems more likely, adding to the excitement surrounding this project.

The Legend of Zelda movie is currently slated for release in 2027. Whether Link will break his silence remains to be seen, but the film promises to be a significant event for fans of the beloved franchise.