Mark your calendars for the television premiere of *Avatar: The Way of Water* on December 22 at 9:10 PM on TF1. Directed by James Cameron, this sequel follows Jake Sully and Neytiri, fifteen years after their romance in the original film. The couple now has a family, including their children Neteyam, Lo’ak, Kiri, and Tuk, alongside Spider, a human boy. The film features innovative motion capture technology and a talented cast, including returning actors and new faces.
Mark your calendars for an exciting event! Following its massive success in theaters upon its debut in 2022, Avatar: The Way of Water will make its television premiere on Sunday, December 22 at 9:10 PM on TF1. This much-anticipated sequel, directed by James Cameron, resumes the captivating journey of Jake Sully, portrayed by Sam Worthington, and Neytiri, the stunning Na’vi played by Zoe Saldana, fifteen years after the first film.
Having blossomed from their romance in the original movie, Jake and Neytiri have built a large family that viewers will meet at the film’s outset. Their children include Neteyam, Lo’ak, Kiri, and Tuk, along with Spider, a human boy whom they regard as a brother. As their adventure unfolds, this close-knit group encounters various other beings from the enchanting world of Pandora…
Thanks to the innovative technology of ‘motion capture’, these new characters are brought to life by a mix of seasoned actors and emerging talents. If you’re curious about who voices these digital characters, we’ve got the scoop!
Sam Worthington as Jake Sully
Returning to the role of Jake Sully is Australian actor Sam Worthington, who was relatively unknown during the release of the first film in 2009. Jake, a former Marine who became aligned with the Na’vi, continues to be a pivotal character in this sequel. This year, Worthington also featured in Kevin Costner’s Horizon: An American Saga and John Woo’s The Killer, showcasing his versatility as an actor.
Zoe Saldaña as Neytiri
Zoe Saldaña’s career skyrocketed after her role as Neytiri in the first Avatar film, following her appearances in blockbuster franchises like Pirates of the Caribbean and Star Trek. She seamlessly transitioned from portraying the blue-skinned Neytiri to the green-skinned Gamora in The Guardians of the Galaxy. Recently, she won an acting award at Cannes for her performance in Emilia Pérez and has received her first Golden Globe nomination for her portrayal of a lawyer. Additionally, she stars in the espionage series Lioness on Paramount+.
Jamie Flatters as Neteyam
Neteyam, the eldest son of Jake and Neytiri, is brought to life by 24-year-old British actor Jamie Flatters, known for his roles in The Battle of the Scheldt and The School for Good and Evil on Netflix. Following his work in Avatar, Flatters has shifted his focus to directing and has recently completed his first feature film, SHOULDERS, a black-and-white horror story yet to be released in France.
Britain Dalton as Lo’ak
Playing the role of Lo’ak, Jake and Neytiri’s younger son, is 23-year-old American actor Britain Dalton. Unlike his older brother, Lo’ak has a rebellious streak. Dalton began his career as a child actor in the series Criminal Minds and has appeared in projects like Goliath alongside Billy Bob Thornton and Steven Spielberg’s Ready Player One.
Trinity Bliss as Tuk
Trinity Bliss, a talented actress and singer, plays Tuktirey, affectionately known as Tuk, the youngest member of Jake and Neytiri’s family. At just 13 years old, this marks her first major role on screen. After filming, she made appearances in series such as Mr. Corman, One Step at a Time, and The Garcias. In early 2023, she released her debut album, Confessions of a Preteen, showcasing her multifaceted talents.
Sigourney Weaver as Kiri
In a surprising twist, veteran actress Sigourney Weaver returns to the franchise in a new role as Kiri, the adopted daughter of Jake and Neytiri. Previously, Weaver portrayed Dr. Grace Augustine in the first Avatar film. Kiri’s mother is the avatar of Dr. Augustine, leaving the identity of her father shrouded in mystery—a revelation that may come in future installments.
Jack Champion as Spider
Introducing Spider, the adopted child of the Sully family, played by 18-year-old Jack Champion. Miles Soccoro, known as Spider, is a human child who remains on Pandora after the events of the first film. He forms a brotherly bond with Jake and Neytiri’s children, unaware that his father is Miles Quaritch, the antagonist from the original film. Champion has appeared in series like Under The Dome, as well as movies such as Avengers: Endgame and Scream 6.
Kate Winslet as Ronal
In a reunion with James Cameron 25 years after Titanic, Kate Winslet takes on the role of Ronal, a physically demanding character who is the partner of Tonowari, chief of the Metkayina tribe. Winslet impressively held her breath for 7 minutes and 14 seconds during an underwater scene, surpassing Tom Cruise’s previous record for Mission: Impossible 5. Talk about dedication!
Cliff Curtis as Tonowari
Cliff Curtis portrays Tonowari, the chief of the Metkayina tribe and husband to Ronal. This New Zealand actor, who made his debut in The Piano in 1993, has appeared in numerous acclaimed films including Bringing Out the Dead, The Fountain, and Sunshine. He has also gained recognition on television, notably in the series Fear the Walking Dead.
Bailey Bass as Reya
Lastly, the role of Reya, the daughter of Ronal and Tonowari, is played by 21-year-old actress Bailey Bass. She was previously seen in a guest role during her teenage years on Law & Order: Special Victims Unit, showcasing her rising career in the industry.