Taika Waititi and Drew Pearce have teamed up to develop a new Judge Dredd film, stirring excitement among fans eager to see who will take on the iconic lead role. Following the cult appeal of the 1990s Sylvester Stallone version and the critically lauded 2012 reboot starring Karl Urban, the prospect of an updated Judge Dredd with Waititi at the helm raises questions about who will best embody this dark comic book character in the upcoming movie.
Despite its strong fan base, the 2012 Dredd reboot struggled financially, grossing just $41 million worldwide against a $30-45 million budget, delaying any immediate sequel plans. With Karl Urban unlikely to return, the studio’s focus is squarely on a fresh reboot, making the casting of Judge Dredd a crucial and challenging decision. Below are ten distinctive actors who could bring unique qualities to the role in this new version of the franchise, reflecting a range of styles, ages, and acting backgrounds that might align with Waititi’s vision.
Chris Hemsworth: Familiar Collaborator With a Powerful Presence
Chris Hemsworth, one of Hollywood’s biggest names, has demonstrated a solid working relationship with Taika Waititi through their collaboration on the Thor films. While Thor: Love and Thunder received mixed reactions, Thor: Ragnarok remains highly praised for its inventive and energetic approach, a tone that could influence this Judge Dredd reboot. Hemsworth’s commanding voice and ability to portray both toughness and vulnerability make him a serious contender.
His performances in action-heavy films like Extraction and Furiosa also showcase his versatility as a lead. However, casting a major star like Hemsworth could be risky considering the mixed reception to Stallone’s portrayal, which suffered from too much unmasking. Still, Hemsworth’s combination of charisma and physicality positions him as a compelling potential Judge Dredd.
Josha Stradowski: Rising Star With Depth and Gravitas
Josha Stradowski gained attention playing Rand al’Thor in the fantasy series The Wheel of Time, where his portrayal of a stoic yet internally conflicted figure resonates with the heavy responsibilities of Judge Dredd. Though The Wheel of Time was canceled after three seasons, Stradowski’s performance stood out, marking him as a promising actor for complex roles.
Judge Dredd’s new story arc, A Better World, requires a nuanced lead who can embody judgment and internal struggle, and Stradowski fits this mold well. His relative youth and emerging career make him an ideal candidate to become the fresh face for this iconic character under Waititi’s direction.
Sterling K. Brown: A Dramatic Powerhouse for a Unique Take
Sterling K. Brown represents a departure from traditional action-led portrayals, offering dramatic depth as a pathway to redefine Judge Dredd. Known for his emotionally charged performances in projects like Waves and This Is Us, and his range demonstrated in Black Panther and Paradise, Brown brings complexity that could enhance the satire and darker emotional layers of the story.
This casting would distinctly differentiate the reboot from past versions, making Brown a strong choice to explore the character’s psychological and ethical dimensions through a more nuanced lens.
Josh Brolin: Seasoned Talent With a Comic Book Legacy
Josh Brolin’s career spans memorable roles including the titan Thanos in the Marvel Cinematic Universe and Cable in Deadpool 2. Though he has hinted at stepping back from comic book franchises, Brolin remains a powerful actor capable of intense, layered characters, such as Llewellyn Moss in No Country for Old Men.
You know what? Green Lantern didn’t work out, but that’s okay. It’s working out. Who is it going to be, Kyle Chandler? I love him as an actor, I think he’s wonderful, actually. And, you know, we’ll see what’s down the line, man.
—Josh Brolin, Actor
At 57, Brolin might appear older than typical portrayals of Judge Dredd, but the character’s appeal could benefit from a mature perspective, particularly if this reboot explores a seasoned law enforcer’s narrative.
Jon Bernthal: The Gritty Action Star with Raw Intensity
Recognized for his tough-guy roles, Jon Bernthal combines physicality with emotional complexity, as shown in The Accountant 2 and The Many Saints of Newark. His breakthrough role as Shane in The Walking Dead cemented his status as a fierce on-screen presence.
Though Bernthal currently plays Frank Castle/The Punisher—a character who shares thematic parallels with Judge Dredd—the similarity could limit his casting appeal. Still, depending on the direction of the new film, Bernthal’s style might perfectly capture Judge Dredd’s ruthless justice.
Damson Idris: Emerging Star Poised for a Breakthrough Franchise
Damson Idris has attracted attention for his performances in Snowfall and his recent role in F1, proving he can handle both intensity and charisma. As an up-and-coming actor, linking Idris with Judge Dredd could bring a fresh, youthful energy and expand his career horizons.
His relative youth among these contenders suggests the reboot might aim for a new, vigorous take on the legendary mega-law enforcer.
Antony Starr: A Fellow New Zealander with a Dark Edge
Antony Starr’s chilling portrayal of Homelander in The Boys reveals his ability to balance charisma with menace, a combination that aligns well with Judge Dredd’s authoritarian and complex nature. Sharing a home country with Taika Waititi, Starr could naturally embody the role’s intensity.
With The Boys concluding after season five, Starr may be seeking a new key role. His talent for conveying power and internal conflict through subtle expressions would allow him to craft a compelling Judge Dredd, even behind the character’s iconic helmet.
Yahya Abdul-Mateen II: Versatile Comic Book Star Ready to Shine
Yahya Abdul-Mateen II’s performances demonstrate notable range, oscillating between likability and menace, qualities essential for Judge Dredd’s complex persona. He has solid comic book experience as Doctor Manhattan in HBO’s Watchmen and as Black Manta in the Aquaman films, where he also wore a large helmet.
These roles highlight his ability to project toughness and coolness, making him a standout candidate to wear the Judge Dredd helmet with authority and style.
Brandon Sklenar: Dark and Intense Actor on the Rise
Brandon Sklenar’s growing reputation as a brooding, physically commanding actor makes him a natural fit for Judge Dredd. His recent role as Spencer Dutton in the series 1923 showcased his ability to portray complex characters laden with emotional weight.
Sklenar’s increasing prominence, combined with his critically praised work, suggests that he could anchor this reboot as a fresh face, appealing to audiences looking for a new direction in the franchise.
Frank Grillo: Seasoned Performer With a Rugged Appeal
Frank Grillo stands out as a durable actor who thrives in intense, tough-guy roles across several franchises including Marvel and the Purge series. While 60 years old, the oldest on this list, Grillo offers the right mix of experience, grit, and a commanding screen presence ideal for Judge Dredd.
Though lacking superstar status, Grillo’s consistent performances and fitting physicality could help bring credibility and depth to Waititi’s take on the character.
The choices for Judge Dredd under Taika Waititi’s direction reflect a wide spectrum of potential approaches, from dramatic reinventions to traditional action renditions. Each actor brings their own blend of strengths, and the selection will significantly shape the tone and reception of this anticipated reboot. With the growing expectations around the project, fans await both the casting announcement and the fresh narrative that will define Judge Dredd’s new chapter in cinema.
