**Gordon Cormier Reflects on Growing Up Alongside Aang in ‘Avatar: The Last Airbender’**
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As fans indulge in the latest episodes of “Avatar: The Last Airbender,” star Gordon Cormier offers a heartfelt account of his experiences growing alongside his character, Aang. The 16-year-old actor, who has portrayed the beloved airbender in Netflix’s live-action adaptation, shared these insights in an exclusive interview with PEOPLE.
Cormier has dedicated the past five years to embodying Aang, a journey that has seen him not only mastering the character’s abilities, such as flying and manipulating the elements, but also growing as an individual and an artist. “As Aang was growing up, I was growing up,” he remarked, highlighting the unique personal evolution both he and his character have experienced during the show’s development.
Having first been announced for the lead role in August 2021, Cormier’s journey in representing Aang has been extensive and immersive. He noted, “I feel like I just spent more and more time developing him into the best version I could portray.” This dedication not only involves understanding Aang’s personality but also expanding his traits and characteristics, making the airbender a more complex and appealing figure for audiences.
The return of the series for its highly anticipated second season on June 25 has brought Aang and his companions back to screens, taking viewers along on their ongoing quest. This season will see Aang, alongside Katara (played by Kiawentiio) and Sokka (Ian Ousley), striving to master the four elemental bending arts while confronting the formidable Fire Nation, led by Fire Lord Ozai, portrayed by Daniel Dae Kim.
A significant addition to this season is the introduction of Toph, a new character who will serve as Aang’s earth-bending instructor. Her entry is expected to bring fresh dynamics to the story as Aang continues to hone his skills. While Aang has developed newfound water-bending abilities, the quest for an earth-bending mentor adds an exciting new layer to his journey.
The returning cast members, including the enigmatic Prince Zuko (Dallas Liu) and his fierce sister Azula (Elizabeth Yu), will also delve into deeper storylines that explore themes of family complications and personal struggles, mirroring the tones found in the original animated series. This continuation of narrative complexity is set to resonate strongly with audiences familiar with the franchise.
Ousley expressed similar sentiments regarding the collaborative journey with his co-stars. “We all grew up making this show,” he said, reflecting on the culmination of their efforts. With both the second and final seasons recently completed, he described the experience as “bittersweet,” recognising the pride they hold in their work while simultaneously grappling with the impending end of their character arcs.
“I love these characters, and letting them go is difficult,” Ousley added. “We’re excited for the world to finally see the results of our hard work, and we are immensely grateful for the opportunity to bring these stories to life.”
Viewers keen to follow Aang’s adventures can now stream the second season of “Avatar: The Last Airbender” on Netflix. As the talented cast prepares for their final chapter, the anticipation mounts for what season three will unveil, leaving audiences eager to witness the character development and story arcs unfold.
With its blend of emotional depth and captivating storytelling, “Avatar: The Last Airbender” continues to resonate with fans both old and new, solidifying its place in the hearts of viewers around the world. As Gordon Cormier and his fellow cast members look towards the future, they do so with the knowledge that their efforts have contributed significantly to a beloved franchise.