Netflix’s live-action adaptation of Avatar: The Last Airbender has introduced significant changes from the original series, notably in the portrayal of Fire Lord Ozai, played by Daniel Dae Kim. The condensed format of just eight episodes has led to adjustments in the storyline and in shaping Aang’s journey to restore peace among the warring kingdoms.
Despite the dissatisfaction from some fans regarding such alterations, Daniel Dae Kim, who embodies Fire Lord Ozai, openly supports Netflix’s creative decisions and has enthusiastically endorsed the changes.
Daniel Dae Kim Embraces Netflix’s Avatar: The Last Airbender Adaptation Changes
Among many changes in Netflix’s Avatar: The Last Airbender, one of the significant changes involves the portrayal of Fire Lord Ozai, played by Daniel Dae Kim. The animated series kept the antagonistic character shrouded in secrecy until Season Three.
While the character remains faithful to the original show’s depiction of the tyrannical Fire Lord, the Netflix adaptation places him prominently as a central figure throughout the first season, with expanded flashbacks and a constant presence in the storyline.
And the actor has expressed support for the creative decisions for the adaptation. In his recent interview with GQ, Kim described such changes as “dramaturgical function,” as he shared that such changes are aimed at deepening the primary characters’ stories.
“I personally applaud the decision,” he said, explaining that it enhances the storytelling and strengthens the audience’s investment in the characters’ journeys. Daniel Dae Kim further stated, “It’s the right decision.” As the first season leaves fans with a cliffhanger, the actor has also expressed enthusiasm to explore his character more potentially in the next season.
Daniel Dae Kim Recalls A Nice Little Exchange With Mark Hamil
Mark Hamil voiced Ozai’s character in the original animated series. Daniel Dae Kim, who takes on the role in Netflix’s live-action adaptation, has shared his deep admiration for Hamil. When asked if had the chance to meet the Star Wars actor, he shared that although he had not met him, he did have a pleasant exchange on Instagram.
“We actually had a nice little Instagram exchange because he saw an interview answer that I gave regarding him,” he shared. Kim shared that Hamil saw a clip of his interview and said thank you. The Joy Ride actor further shared, “I have a lot of respect for him,” as he commended Hamil as one of the greatest voice actors.
Daniel Day Kim has earlier expressed his appreciation for the actor in an interview with CinemaBlend. “First of all, I think Mark Hamill, you know, is one of our best voice actors,” Kim said, as he emphasized what he found particularly compelling about Hamill’s portrayal of Ozai.
“When I heard him voice Ozai the thing that I really love most about it was his refusal to apologize for the character,” he said before adding, “And I thought that was something to take away.” Kim has also received mixed responses to his performance in the series, with some praising the actor for his work, while others argue against it.
Avatar: The Last Airbender is available to stream on Netflix.
