The rumors are absolutely everywhere. If you’ve spent five minutes on social media lately, you’ve likely seen a "leaked" list of names for the next generation of teenagers with attitude. Honestly, it’s a bit of a mess to sort through. For years, the franchise felt stuck in limbo after the 2017 movie failed to ignite a massive cinematic universe and Netflix's ambitious plans eventually fell through. But now, as we move into 2026, the fog is finally clearing.
We aren't looking at a direct sequel to the Dacre Montgomery or Naomi Scott era. That ship has sailed. Instead, the focus has shifted entirely to a massive reboot headed to Disney+ in collaboration with Hasbro.
Who is actually in the power rangers new movie cast?
Let's get into the names. While Hasbro and Disney are keeping things officially under wraps, the casting "shortlists" from industry insiders have become surprisingly consistent. We aren't just talking about random guesses; we’re talking about actors who are reportedly deep in the mix or already attached to the project.
Peyton Elizabeth Lee is the name at the top of every list. You likely know her from Andi Mack or Doogie Kameāloha, M.D. She’s reportedly all but locked in as one of the primary leads. Along with her, Mason Thames, who most people recognize from the terrifying The Black Phone or the upcoming live-action How to Train Your Dragon, is heavily rumored for a central role.
The rumored squad seems to be leaning into a younger, diverse group that can actually handle the physical demands of the roles. Here is the breakdown of the actors currently "in the mix" for the core team:
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- Shaun Dixon: He’s got that Disney history from Vampirina: Teenage Vampire.
- Paris Bravo: An interesting choice because she has a heavy stunt background, specifically working on Venom: The Last Dance.
- Momona Tamada: She basically won over everyone as Ty Lee in Netflix's Avatar: The Last Airbender.
- Judd Goodstein: Best known for You Are So Not Invited to My Bat Mitzvah.
- Christian Alexander Cruz and Kira McLean: Both are up-and-coming names being linked to the project as the final pieces of the puzzle.
The Rita Repulsa Rumor Everyone Is Talking About
This is the big one. If you want to break the internet, you cast a global superstar as your villain. Reports have been swirling that Priyanka Chopra is the top choice to play Rita Repulsa.
It makes sense. Rita needs to be theatrical, menacing, and commanding. Elizabeth Banks did a campy, terrifying version in 2017, but this new iteration under Disney is expected to be part of a more grounded, "prestige TV" universe. Having a name like Chopra would immediately give the series the high-budget, "Star Wars level" gravity that the producers are aiming for.
The Creative Powerhouse Behind the Scenes
Casting is only half the battle. Who’s actually making this? For a while, Jonathan Entwistle (The End of the F*ing World) was the guy. He had this wild "multiverse" idea involving Tommy Oliver and Lord Drakkon. Sadly, that version was scrapped when the Netflix partnership ended.
Now, the keys have been handed to Jonathan E. Steinberg and Dan Shotz.
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These are the guys who just knocked it out of the park with Percy Jackson and the Olympians on Disney+. They also did Black Sails, which was a gritty, serialized masterpiece. This tells us everything we need to know about the tone. They aren't looking for a "monster of the week" cheese-fest. They want a serialized, character-driven epic.
Why this isn't just another TV show
There is a lot of confusion about whether this is a "movie" or a "series." Basically, the plan is a "connected universe." Think Marvel or Star Wars. You start with a flagship series on Disney+ to build the world, which then leads into feature-length films.
The production is reportedly aiming to start filming in early 2026, with London being whispered as a primary location. This isn't the New Zealand-based, low-budget production we’ve seen for the last 30 years. They are ditching the recycled Japanese Super Sentai footage. Everything—the suits, the Zords, the fights—is being built from scratch for the first time in the franchise's history.
What most fans are getting wrong
A lot of people think this will be a direct remake of Mighty Morphin Power Rangers. It’s not. While it might use those iconic names (Jason, Kimberly, Zack, etc.), it is a "total reboot."
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The goal is to create a new entry point that doesn't require you to know 30 seasons of lore. They are wiping the slate clean. This has been a point of contention for "legacy" fans, but honestly, it’s probably necessary if the franchise wants to survive in 2026.
What to look for next
If you want to stay ahead of the curve, keep an eye on official Disney+ press releases toward the middle of 2026. Usually, these big casting announcements happen all at once or during a major event like D23.
Actionable Insights for Fans:
- Don't buy into every "leak": While names like Peyton Elizabeth Lee and Mason Thames are highly likely, nothing is set in stone until Disney posts that first group photo in the suits.
- Expect a different tone: This isn't the 90s. Prepare for something closer to Stranger Things or Percy Jackson—serious stakes with a bit of heart.
- Monitor the release window: With production potentially starting mid-2026, don't expect to actually see the Rangers on screen until 2027.
The "teenagers with attitude" are finally getting a second chance at the big time, and while the wait is painful, the caliber of talent involved suggests it might actually be worth it this time.