How Tom Holland Surprised Zendaya with Her Casting in “The Odyssey”

Tom Holland has revealed the delightful moment he got to inform his wife, Zendaya, that director Christopher Nolan wished to cast her as Athena in his upcoming film, ‘The Odyssey’. This latest cinematic venture is set to reach audiences on 17 July and marks another collaboration between the couple, who also star together in ‘Spider-Man: Brand New Day’ which is due for release on 31 July.

Holland, who plays Telemachus in ‘The Odyssey’, recounted the experience during an interview with his co-star Robert Pattinson for Access Hollywood. The actor, now 30, described how Nolan approached him with the idea of casting Zendaya, believing she would be the perfect fit for the iconic role. Holland expressed his excitement, acknowledging his wife’s admiration for the famed director, adding that Nolan’s film ‘Interstellar’ holds a special place in her heart.

The couple, who tied the knot earlier this year, initially read the screenplay for ‘The Odyssey’ together after Holland secured his role in the film. During a meeting with Nolan, the director posed an unexpected question. According to Holland, Nolan began, “Do you mind if I ask you a question, and please don’t be offended by my asking,” to which Holland expected some trivial query regarding his appearance. Instead, Nolan inquired if he would take offence if Zendaya were cast as Athena.

Holland was taken aback but responded positively, saying, “Why would I be offended? I would be honoured, that’s amazing. I’m sure she would love to.” The actor then volunteered to deliver the news to his wife. When he returned home, he cleverly hinted at her potential role. “You should read the script again,” he advised, prompting a puzzled response from Zendaya. Eventually, as he urged her to focus on the character of Athena, her reaction was one of joy and disbelief.

Zendaya, who has also been part of the Spider-Man franchise since its inception with 2017’s ‘Spider-Man: Homecoming’, shared her own excitement over the casting in a recent interview. Speaking with John Leguizamo on the podcast ‘Happy Sad Confused’, she recounted how thrilled she was for Holland before she learnt she too would be part of the project. “I was already on cloud nine for him,” she noted, highlighting her support for her husband’s achievements.

She recalled the moment Holland asked her to re-examine the script with fresh eyes, saying, “I was like, ‘Shut up! You’re joking!’ It was pretty cool.” The couple has kept their relationship under the spotlight since making it public in 2021, and this new film marks yet another opportunity for them to shine together on screen.

In ‘The Odyssey’, Zendaya takes on the role of Athena, who serves as a key advisor to Odysseus, portrayed by Matt Damon. Throughout the legendary tale, Athena aids Odysseus on his perilous journey home following the Trojan War while he struggles to retain his kingship over Ithaca. Holland’s character, Telemachus, alongside his mother Penelope — played by Anne Hathaway — faces numerous challenges from suitors vying for his mother’s hand in the absence of his father.

As the film approaches its release date, excitement continues to build around its portrayal of the classical epic. ‘The Odyssey’ not only represents a significant addition to Nolan’s illustrious filmography but also brings an engaging dynamic through Holland and Zendaya’s on-screen collaboration.

The anticipation for ‘The Odyssey’ remains high, with its theatrical debut just around the corner. Fans are equally looking forward to seeing the duo light up the screen again in ‘Spider-Man: Brand New Day’, which promises to further showcase their chemistry. As both films are set to generate significant buzz, the married couple continues to captivate audiences with their talent and personal connection.

With its grand themes and renowned cast, ‘The Odyssey’ stands poised to be a must-see film of the summer, whilst Holland and Zendaya’s involvement only adds to the intrigue surrounding Christopher Nolan’s latest undertaking.