“TMNT” Co-Creator Reveals Which Big-Name Actor Told Him He’d Love to Play Casey Jones in a Live-Action Sequel (Exclusive)

‘TMNT’ Co-Creator Reveals Which Actor Wants to Play Casey Jones.

The co-creator of the iconic ‘Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles’ franchise, Kevin Eastman, has recently disclosed an exciting development regarding the potential casting of a key character in a future live-action sequel. In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE, Eastman unveiled that actor Joe Manganiello has expressed a keen interest in portraying the fan-favorite character, Casey Jones, on the big screen.

Kevin Eastman, now 63, who co-created the TMNT universe, delved into discussions surrounding the enduring legacy of the original 1990 ‘Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles’ movie as it approaches its 35th anniversary. During the conversation, Eastman shared insights on the future direction of the franchise and revealed Manganiello’s eagerness to step into the role of the masked vigilante.

Manganiello, a 48-year-old actor known for his roles in various films and TV shows, has showcased his passion for the TMNT franchise to Eastman. The actor’s enthusiasm for the Turtles extends to his love for role-playing games set in the Turtle universe, which ultimately led to a connection with Eastman.

Eastman recounted his initial interactions with Manganiello, emphasising the actor’s genuine admiration for the Turtleverse. In discussions about a potential new live-action TMNT project, Manganiello expressed his desire to embody the character of Casey Jones, a pivotal figure in the Turtles’ adventures. The co-creator praised Manganiello’s suitability for the role, citing his age and passion for the franchise.

Eastman also hinted at the possibility of actress Judith Hoag reprising her role as April O’Neil in the envisioned new film. According to Eastman, Hoag, now 62, would bring a dynamic authenticity to the story, aligning with the vision for a future narrative that pays homage to the original movie while exploring fresh storytelling avenues.

While enthused about the potential for revisiting the live-action TMNT universe, Eastman acknowledged the uncertainties inherent in the entertainment industry. Despite ongoing discussions among Hollywood producers and Paramount Studios, the actualisation of a new instalment remains speculative, contingent on various factors shaping the movie landscape.

The enduring appeal of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles franchise, spanning multiple films, TV series, and animated adaptations, resonates with audiences due to its thematic core of familial bonds. Eastman underscored the universality of the Turtle characters, stressing the consistent emphasis on family dynamics as a unifying element across the diverse iterations of the beloved saga.

As the original 1990 TMNT movie prepares for a theatrical re-release in celebration of its 35th anniversary, Eastman urged both long-time fans and newcomers to rediscover the cinematic magic that first brought the Turtles to life. Reflecting on the movie’s enduring impact, Eastman expressed his deep appreciation for the 1990 film’s portrayal of the beloved characters, asserting its status as the quintessential TMNT cinematic experience.

In conclusion, the potential casting of Joe Manganiello as Casey Jones and the prospect of a new live-action sequel offer tantalising possibilities for TMNT enthusiasts. While the future of the franchise remains uncertain, the passion and creativity driving the Turtle universe continue to captivate audiences worldwide, ensuring the enduring legacy of these beloved heroes in a half shell.