Percy Jackson and the Olympians creator reveals the high sensitivity kept in mind while recasting Zeus

Percy Jackson and the Olympians, the Disney+ series based on Rick Riordan’s novel series of the same name, was released to global praise back in December 2023. The fantasy series, developed by Riordan and Jonathan E. Steinberg, follows young Percy Jackson as he discovers his heritage as a demigod, the son of Poseidon.

The show is known for its casting, which included Lance Reddick as Zeus, but the actor tragically passed away in March 2023. Following the actor’s passing, the creator had to recast Zeus. Riordan, in an interview with ScreenRant, spoke about how much care and thought went into that decision.

Zeus in Percy Jackson and the Olympians

In Greek mythology, Zeus is the king of the gods, who has the power to yield and control thunder, lightning, and even the weather. In the Percy Jackson and the Olympians show, he holds an equally important place. Although his screen time in the first season was brief, Reddick’s portrayal felt authentic and left a lasting impression.

Because Zeus is a significant character in the show as the story proceeds, the creative team could not avoid recasting the character. Rick Riordan recently addressed the sensitive nature of the decision, explaining why Courtney B. Vance was chosen to step into the role.

In his conversation with ScreenRant during the franchise’s 20th anniversary, Riordan said,

“Well, I mean, we're very lucky that Courtney could come on board. He's incredible. He's going to be amazing in the role, and obviously Lance was a huge loss for the industry, especially for us, beloved, and has a connection with Tamara Smart, who is our Thalia Grace. And so I think everybody felt really good about that transition. There was a lot of love, a lot of respect around that casting choice, and we all feel good about it. Of course, it's bittersweet, but I am confident that he's going to make a perfect king of Olympus.”

Recasting characters is never easy, since no one can undo the effect an actor has left on their viewers. Reddick is best known for playing Charon in the John Wick film series and Deputy Chief Irvin Irving in Bosch. His legacy, both as an actor and as Zeus in Percy Jackson and the Olympians, is not something to be replaced. But the character of Zeus had to be recast and the creative team of the show has done that respectfully.

We don't know what Vance will bring to the role as Zeus, but he is no stranger to powerful roles. He is a Tony Award winner and is best known for playing Assistant District Attorney Ron Carver in Law & Order: Criminal Intent and George Freeman in Lovecraft Country.

Still, the change is a difficult one. The cast and crew had to balance honoring Reddick’s legacy while ensuring the story could move forward. These types of decisions require sensitivity and respect.

While Reddick’s performance as Zeus will always be remembered, Riordan’s confidence in Vance suggests that the transition will feel both respectful and fitting. It is evident that the show is determined to maintain its characters while also honoring the contributions of the actors who have and will play them.

As Percy Jackson and the Olympians expands in later seasons, Zeus is expected to play a larger role in the conflicts between gods and demigods. With Vance stepping into the role, the show is preparing to carry on Reddick’s legacy while ensuring the story follows Riordan’s novels authentically.

Percy Jackson and the Olympians season one is streaming on Disney+ and season two will arrive on the platform on 10th December 2025.

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