Fans of the legendary video game franchise can finally celebrate as the Street Fighter casting has been officially announced for the highly anticipated live-action reboot. Set to hit theaters on October 16, 2026, the film promises to deliver thrilling action, iconic characters, and an exciting new chapter in the Street Fighter universe.
A Star-Studded Cast Brings Iconic Characters to Life
The production team has put together an impressive ensemble cast, blending actors, musicians, professional wrestlers, and comedians to portray some of the most beloved characters from the Street Fighter video game series. Here are some of the key casting announcements that have already ignited excitement worldwide:
- 🎮 Noah Centineo as Ken Masters – Known for his charming charisma, Centineo takes on the role of Ken, Ryu’s best friend and fellow martial artist.
- 🎮 Andrew Koji as Ryu – The stoic and disciplined martial artist Ryu is brought to life by Andrew Koji, promising an intense and authentic performance.
- 🎮 Callina Liang as Chun-Li – Liang steps into the role of Chun-Li, the fierce and skilled fighter seeking justice.
- 🎮 Jason Momoa as Blanka – The larger-than-life Jason Momoa plays Blanka, whose primal rage and unique appearance are expected to be show-stopping.
- 🎮 Roman Reigns as Akuma – Reigns, a powerhouse in the wrestling world, portrays the fearsome Akuma, adding a layer of intensity to the villainous role.
- 🎮 Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson as Balrog – Bringing a gritty and tough presence to Balrog, 50 Cent’s casting promises action and swagger.
- 🎮 Vidyut Jammwal as Dhalsim – The Indian action star takes on the role of Dhalsim, adding authentic martial arts expertise to the cast.
- 🎮 David Dastmalchian as M. Bison – The villainous M. Bison, leader of Shadaloo, will be portrayed by Dastmalchian, expected to deliver a chilling performance.
Other notable cast members include Cody Rhodes as Guile, Olivier Richters as Zangief, Eric André as Don Sauvage, Mel Jarnson as Cammy, Alexander Volkanovski as Joe, Kyle Mooney as Marvin, Hirooki Goto as E. Honda, Rayna Vallandingham as Juli, and Orville Peck as Vega.
Behind the Scenes: Production and Direction
The film is directed by Kitao Sakurai, best known for his ability to combine action and dark humor, a perfect fit for Street Fighter’s mix of serious combat and colorful characters. Principal photography began in August 2025 at Disney Studios in Moore Park, Sydney, Australia.
Production has been in the spotlight, especially after several cast members were seen enjoying time aboard a luxury superyacht in Sydney, hinting at strong camaraderie behind the scenes. This positive atmosphere, combined with Sakurai’s creative direction, aims to translate into a cohesive and entertaining cinematic experience.
Plot: A Fresh Take on the Classic
Set in 1993, the story follows estranged fighters Ryu and Ken, who are reluctantly drawn back into combat when Chun-Li recruits them to enter the World Warrior Tournament. Along the way, they face old rivalries, deadly conspiracies, and the ever-present threat of M. Bison’s Shadaloo organization.
This reboot promises to balance intense martial arts action with character-driven storytelling, staying true to the spirit of the original game while offering a fresh narrative perspective.
Anticipation and Fan Reactions
Since the Street Fighter casting was announced, fan excitement has skyrocketed across social media platforms. Enthusiasts are particularly thrilled by the inclusion of Vidyut Jammwal as Dhalsim, praising the choice for bringing authentic martial arts experience to the role.
Jason Momoa and Roman Reigns’ involvement has also generated buzz, promising physical performances that reflect the characters’ strength and brutality. Discussions about Noah Centineo as Ken have mixed reactions, but many agree that his youthful energy makes him a great fit.
Industry experts expect the film to push the boundaries of video game adaptations, especially given the star power and production values involved.
Release and Expectations
Originally slated for March 20, 2026, the film’s release was strategically postponed to October 16, 2026, to allow for optimal marketing and a better theatrical window. Paramount Pictures will distribute the movie, aiming to position it as a major event in the fall film season.
With high production values, action choreography, and a cast of well-known actors, the Street Fighter reboot is poised to compete with other blockbuster video game adaptations. Trailers and promotional content are expected to roll out in early 2026, setting the stage for heightened anticipation.
Conclusion: A Defining Moment for the Franchise
The official Street Fighter casting announcement marks a pivotal moment for the franchise. With a diverse and talented cast, strong direction, and a renewed focus on delivering both action and narrative depth, the film looks set to captivate longtime fans and newcomers alike.
As the release date approaches, all eyes will remain on how the movie lives up to the legendary status of its video game origins and whether it can successfully carve its own place in cinematic history.
