Destiny 2 fans have a lot to get excited about today, as the first look at Keith David’s take on Commander Zavala has been revealed. He will make his first full appearance in The Final Shape,Β the next expansion released for the popular years-running live service franchise, set to drop next month on June 4th.
Lance Reddicks Passing Shocked Destiny 2 Fans
The entertainment world was rocked last year by the untimely passing of the legendary Lance Reddick. In the film landscape, he was perhaps most well-known for his commanding presence, smooth voice, and his role in the John Wick franchise as Concierge Charon. However, his most cherished role for many gamers was as the voice of Commander Zavala in the Destiny franchise.
Reddicks passing left Bungie in a difficult spot. How best to proceed with the character of Zavala for the foreseeable future of the Destiny franchise? It was announced last year that prolific actor Keith David, known for his roles in Call of Duty Modern Warfare 2, Rick and Morty, and The Thing, would be taking over the role in the forthcoming Destiny expansions.
Fans of the series can get their first look at David in the role in the latest trailer for The Final Shape. He seems to be the perfect choice to fill the massive shoes left by Reddick; he has a similar enough voice without sounding like a direct copy. From the clip we have seen, David seems to be doing his own thing with the role while also embodying Zavala well and respecting what Reddick brought.
The response on Twitter/X has been very positive so far, with many fans writing to the effect that while David clearly is not Lance Reddick, he is a worthy successor to carry on the mantle of Zavala. Many also expressed that Reddick would be proud of David’s take on the character.
Lance would definitely be proud. π€
— #π³πππππ‘ππ¨π | πππππ (@thewhitedovah) May 23, 2024
Remembering the Late, Great Lance Reddick
Reddick was not just popular for his performance in the games; he was cherished because of his genuine love for DestinyΒ and especially his love for his fans. When Reddick passed, there was a strong outpouring of love from the Destiny community, showing how well-revered he was by the players. It seems that not only was he a great presence in the game but also a shining light within the community.
It is very encouraging to see overwhelming positivity from a game community on such a sensitive issue. The recast would have been very difficult for Bungie to get right, and for now, it seems they have.
This is not a new issue, and it is one we are sadly sure to see more and more of as the years go by. Creatives will always have to contend with what to do when an iconic and well-loved actor passes away and how best to continue without them.
But what do you think? Is David a worthy successor to Reddick as Zavala? Let us know in the comments!
