Scott Eastwood
If this article was called ‘Actors who should have played Solid Snake 30 years ago’ then it would have one name on the list – Clint Eastwood. The guy was perfect for Snake back in the day – his look, his voice, and his acting style suited the role perfectly.
Sadly, we’re never going to see that happen, but one thing we could see, is his son Scott step into the role. Aesthetically speaking, Scott is ideal for the role, especially if the film were based on the first Metal Gear Solid, and while his credentials may not be as impressive as his father’s, I’ve no doubt he has something special in his tank if needed.
Bradley Cooper
Bradley Cooper made his name starring in romances and comedies, and for that reason, he could be rejected by more hardcore fans of Metal Gear Solid, who see Snake as the ultimate slice of machismo. Rejecting Cooper would be stupid, though, as the guy is a very capable actor and he proved he can play complex, macho types with his Oscar nominated turn as Chris Kyle in Clint Eastwood’s critically acclaimed American Sniper.
Cooper would also be able to pull off both a younger and slightly older version of Snake, which could make him the ideal candidate if the film were to span multiple decades.
Tom Hardy
This one was obvious, wasn’t it? Tom Hardy’s name is chucked about every casting list when it to comes to lead male roles these days, but Snake seems a very natural fit for the actor.
Hardy is a versatile actor who also has the hyper masculinity required for a performance as Snake. He also has the chops to pull off the more complex elements of Snake’s character and would also help the film draw big time at the box office. In short, he’s perfect for the job.
Sadly, Hardy is already tied up with the upcoming Venom movie, and also has commitments to the Mad Max franchise, so it’s unlikely we will ever see this happen. We can dream though.
Hugh Jackman
Hugh Jackman is pretty much the ideal candidate to play Solid Snake. Now the Australian actor is finally finished with his obligations as Wolverine, he is free to finally take on another big franchise role. Jackman’s grizzled, cigar chewing Logan was only an eye patch away from Solid Snake, and the guy’s emotional range is second to one, as he proved with his work in Logan earlier this year.
Who do you think should play Solid Snake? Let us know in the comments below, and let Liam know on Twitter @liamhoofe
Originally published September 14, 2017. Updated April 16, 2018.
