Since its tumultuous launch, Cyberpunk 2077 has undergone one of the most astonishing comebacks in gaming history. With the massive success of the Netflix anime Cyberpunk: Edgerunners and the critically acclaimed Phantom Liberty expansion, the audacious world of Night City has proven itself to be fertile ground for storytelling beyond the screen. Now, in 2026, as whispers of a live-action adaptation grow louder, the question on every fan’s mind is: who could possibly embody the game’s larger-than-life characters? While no project has been officially greenlit, the combination of CD Projekt Red’s blockbuster resurgence and the star power already attached to the franchise—Keanu Reeves and Idris Elba, to name a few—makes a movie feel almost inevitable. So, if Hollywood were to cast a live-action Cyberpunk 2077 film, which actors would be the best fit? Here are some dream casting choices that would bring Night City’s most unforgettable figures to life.
Female V – Hailee Steinfeld
V is arguably one of the most demanding roles in modern gaming—a mercenary who can be both heartbreakingly vulnerable and terrifyingly lethal. Hailee Steinfeld has repeatedly showcased the range required for such a duality. Her portrayal of Gwen Stacy in the Spider-Verse films balanced emotional depth with superhero competence, while her voice work as Vi in Arcane brought forth a raw, explosive intensity that perfectly mirrors V’s street-hardened edge. Could there be anyone better to juggle the quiet moments of love and loss with the sheer brutality of a chromed-up solo? Steinfeld’s ability to layer toughness with genuine warmth makes her a top contender for female V, regardless of how closely she matches the in-game look. After all, every player’s V is unique.
Male V – Jon Bernthal
For male V, the required tone tilts slightly more toward aggression—though never losing that undercurrent of weary humanity. Jon Bernthal has built a career on characters who operate in moral grey zones, radiating danger while still inspiring empathy. From his searing turn as Frank Castle in The Punisher to his coiled intensity in The Walking Dead, Bernthal has mastered the art of being simultaneously intimidating and deeply wounded. He can sell the cocky one-liners V tosses out during gigs just as easily as the gut-wrenching silences that follow personal tragedy. Pair him with Steinfeld or another female V, and you’d have a dynamic protagonist who feels authentically alive.
Johnny Silverhand – Keanu Reeves
If there is one casting choice that requires absolutely zero debate, it’s Keanu Reeves as Johnny Silverhand. The character’s entire likeness, mannerisms, and anarchic rockerboy spirit were built around Reeves, and after hundreds of hours of watching his digital ghost berate and befriend players, imagining anyone else in the role feels sacrilegious. Reeves’ own mystique as a beloved star would also drive massive interest in the film. Besides, hasn’t he already proven he’s the perfect blend of philosopher and fighter through the John Wick series? The only real question is how his chemistry would evolve with a new V, especially if played by one of the above actors. One thing is certain: the silver hand and aviator shades are non-negotiable.
Panam Palmer – Tristin Mays
The Nomad mechanic with a fiery temper and a heart of gold, Panam Palmer became one of the game’s most beloved allies and romance options. When it comes to visual resemblance and attitude, Tristin Mays is an uncanny match. The actress has already acknowledged the striking similarities between herself and Panam, and fans have been clamoring for her to step into the role. Mays might not yet have the same household-name status as some of the other names on this list, but a breakout performance in a Cyberpunk film could change that overnight. Given Panam’s blend of vulnerability, loyalty, and explosive rage, Mays’ background in action-oriented television makes her more than ready to take on the Badlands’ toughest driver.
Judy Alvarez – Ana de Armas
Judy Alvarez, the brilliant braindance editor and reluctant romantic anchor of Act 2, requires an actress who can convey profound sadness without losing the warmth that draws V to her. Ana de Armas, fresh off her 2023 Oscar nomination, brings exactly that sensitivity—and her experience in the neon-noir world of Blade Runner 2049 proves she can effortlessly slot into a futuristic dystopia. Moreover, Judy’s Cuban heritage aligns with de Armas’ own roots, adding an authentic layer to the character’s identity. Could she replicate the emotional breakdowns and quiet strength that made Judy such a fan favorite? Absolutely. And her star power would also elevate the film’s prestige.
Kerry Eurodyne – Jay Hernandez
At first glance, Jay Hernandez might seem like an unconventional pick for the flamboyant, aging rocker Kerry Eurodyne. But looks can be deceiving. Hernandez’s chameleon-like turn as El Diablo in Suicide Squad—complete with facial tattoos and a completely different physicality—demonstrates his willingness to transform. Add some blonde hair implant and retro Cyberware, and he would look startlingly close to the chaotic musician. More importantly, Kerry’s character is defined by internal conflict: a mix of creative frustration, loneliness, and sudden bursts of rage. Hernandez has shown in Magnum P.I. and beyond that he can balance charm with volatility, making him a surprisingly strong candidate to channel Kerry’s anarchic energy.
River Ward – Daniel Sunjata
Former NCPD detective River Ward walks a thin line between the law and the moral obligations of family. He is stoic yet prone to explosive emotion when the people he loves are in danger. Daniel Sunjata’s track record makes him a natural fit: he played an FBI special agent in Graceland, bringing a calm, authoritative presence, while his role in Power Book II: Ghost revealed a more menacing side. With his sturdy build and no-nonsense demeanor, Sunjata could easily slip into River’s signature trench coat and become the relentless investigator who helps V navigate the city’s darkest corners.
Jackie Wells – Dave Bautista
Jackie Wells is the beating heart of Cyberpunk 2077’s first act—a loyal choom whose big dreams and bigger heart set the entire story in motion. Dave Bautista has repeatedly proven that beneath his imposing physique lies a gift for lovable, goofy characters with genuine pathos (just watch his Drax in Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3). Bautista could capture Jackie’s boisterous humor and relentless optimism, then pivot seamlessly into the devastatingly serious moments that define his arc. After all, isn’t the best buddy character one who can make you laugh before breaking your heart? Bautista is more than up to the task.
Goro Takemura – Hiroyuki Sanada
Goro Takemura, the honorable bodyguard-turned-uneasy-ally, is a character of rigid discipline and hidden turmoil. Hiroyuki Sanada has practically made a career out of portraying exactly this type of warrior—from his stoic roles in John Wick Chapter 4 to the deadly yet principled assassins he has brought to life. Sanada’s ability to convey deep internal conflict with minimal dialogue would be a perfect match for Takemura’s journey from serving the Arasaka corporation to questioning his entire purpose. A showdown or team-up between Sanada’s Takemura and Reeves’ Silverhand? Now that would be a scene worth waiting for.
Adam Smasher – Josh Brolin
If Takemura represents honor, Adam Smasher is the embodiment of cold, mechanized brutality. As the game’s final obstacle, Smasher needs to be a presence that makes audiences recoil—a near-unstoppable force of chromed destruction. Josh Brolin’s performance as Thanos in the Marvel Cinematic Universe already cemented his ability to play a world-threatening villain with chilling calmness. Smasher, however, might be even more terrifying: he’s completely remorseless, driven by sheer power and twisted entertainment. Brolin’s gravelly voice and intimidating physicality, augmented with the necessary Cyberpunk prosthetics, could make Adam Smasher an iconic screen monster. Would he surpass Thanos in sheer menace? For anyone who has played the game, the answer might be a resounding yes.
While a live-action Cyberpunk 2077 movie remains a tantalizing “what if,” the possibilities are too exciting to ignore. With talent like the names above—and perhaps a surprise cameo from Idris Elba reprising his Phantom Liberty role as Solomon Reed—the foundation for a cinematic masterpiece already exists. Whether the film ever revs its engines in Dogtown or the neon-lit streets of Night City, one thing is clear: the legacy of Cyberpunk 2077 has never been stronger, and Hollywood would be wise to ride that wave.