Walker Scobell, the 17-year-old actor known for his role as Percy Jackson in the Disney+ series, recently shared insights into his career aspirations and the upcoming third season of “Percy Jackson and the Olympians” at New York Comic Con. Speaking with PEOPLE on 10 October, Scobell reflected on his journey in the entertainment industry and discussed his attachment to the source material of the beloved series.
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Initially, Scobell expressed aspirations of working behind the scenes as a producer when he first joined the project. However, he revealed during the convention that his feelings have changed. “When I first started, I was immediately like, I want to be a producer or something. But to be honest, I don’t know,” he stated. This uncertainty stems from his deep appreciation as a long-time fan of Rick Riordan’s novels.
His connection to the books has led him to prefer the acting role, saying, “It would be difficult for me to be creative because I’m so attached to the books in a way.” Scobell’s comment highlights the delicate balance between adaptation and authenticity that many die-hard fans of literature often grapple with, acknowledging that any changes made in the adaptation process could be a sensitive matter.
During his spotlight panel at the Comic Con, Scobell reiterated that directing isn’t in his future plans. Commenting on the possibility of guiding an episode, he said, “I don’t think I could ever direct myself in something.” This admission showcases his understanding of the challenges that come with creative control, especially when the material is so beloved.
Looking ahead, Scobell entertained the idea of future seasons and spin-offs, particularly referring to the potential adaptation of “Heroes of Olympus.” He posited, “If we did The Lost Hero, which Percy’s not in, I think I would totally like to do that.” His willingness to explore new facets of the narrative suggests a readiness to grow as an actor while honouring the legacy of the characters he portrays.
The upcoming season of the series will adapt “The Titan’s Curse,” the third book in Riordan’s popular franchise. The storyline focuses on Percy’s quest to rescue his friend Annabeth Chase, who has been captured by the forces of the antagonist, Kronos. The challenges he faces will not only test his abilities but also demand he step up in ways he hasn’t had to before. “He’s relied on Annabeth before,” Scobell noted, adding, “There’s growth there to emotionally regulate everybody, but Percy has to step up.”
With Leah Sava Jeffries starring as Annabeth and Aryan Simhadri as Grover Underwood, fans can look forward to the show’s first-ever screen adaptation of “The Titan’s Curse,” especially since the previous film series halted after only adapting the first two books. This new iteration is generating excitement among fans eager for a faithful representation of the story.
The anticipation surrounding the third season is palpable, with promises of exciting developments and deep character arcs. Scobell’s insights and enthusiasm indicate a strong commitment to representing Percy Jackson authentically while embracing the challenges that come with such an iconic role.
The new season of “Percy Jackson and the Olympians” is set to premiere on 20 November on Disney+. With fresh adventures on the horizon, fans are eager to witness how the beloved characters will evolve in the face of new challenges. As Scobell navigates his burgeoning career, he remains dedicated to bringing the spirit of Percy Jackson to life, ensuring that the legacy of Riordan’s work continues to resonate with audiences old and new.