**Walker Scobell Reflects on His Journey as Percy Jackson**
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(jpeg)/Walker-Scobell-Logan-Lerman-012626-6c46eee3c3214adcbd5cc9d1ad543b1d.jpg)
Walker Scobell, the 17-year-old star of Disney+’s *Percy Jackson and the Olympians*, recently shared his feelings about stepping into the shoes of our beloved demigod. In a candid interview with PEOPLE, Scobell recounted a memorable experience when he was first identified not as Walker, but as Percy – a moment that holds significant importance for him.
Having taken on the iconic role of Percy Jackson, Scobell initially found it challenging to distinguish his identity from that of Logan Lerman, who portrayed the character in the previous film adaptations. “I was looking around for Logan Lerman at first,” he revealed, reflecting on how the legacy of Lerman’s portrayal still looms large in the minds of fans.
The challenge of assuming a role so closely associated with another actor is daunting. Yet, for Scobell, this association serves as a motivational factor rather than a burden. He expressed his excitement about taking on a character that has resonated with audiences for years, especially as the series is adapted from the widely celebrated books written by Rick Riordan.
Reflecting on his transition into this prominent role, Scobell shared the profound moment when fans began calling him by the character’s name. This significant event occurred during the premiere of *Stranger Things* season four, an occasion he described as “insane.” He noted the thrill of his first major premiere experience and the joy it brought him as fans recognized him in his new role.
Despite his initial trepidation regarding publicity events, Scobell has found a way to navigate them while still embracing the recognition from fans. He admitted, “I don’t really like walking the red carpet that much; it stresses me out,” leading him to take an alternative route into the venue to avoid the intense pressure that often accompanies such occasions.
The young actor’s thoughts also ventured towards the legacy of Percy Jackson and how Lerman’s portrayal has permeated popular culture. For many fans, Lerman’s embodiment of the character still holds a special place, making Scobell’s task even more challenging as he strives to bring his own interpretation to the role.
As he embarks on this new chapter in his acting career, Scobell is keenly aware of the bar set by his predecessor. However, he remains enthusiastic about the opportunity to introduce Percy Jackson to a new generation of viewers, hoping to capture the essence of the character while adding his unique flair.
In conclusion, Walker Scobell’s journey as Percy Jackson is just beginning, but early signs indicate he is well aware of the significance of this role in his career. The whirlwind of emotions surrounding his newfound fame clearly excites him, as he navigates the world of acting and fan interactions. His story serves as an excellent insight into the challenges and triumphs that many young actors face when stepping into prominent roles within beloved franchises.
As the series progresses and Scobell continues to connect with fans, it will be intriguing to see how he shapes the legacy of Percy Jackson for years to come.