After Lance Reddick passed this past March, the entertainment world mourned the loss of one of the most versatile actors out there. Reddick was more than just an actor; he actively engaged with fans and the films and games he worked on.
With the news that Reddick has passed, many characters he portrayed were left in limbo, including his characters Sylens from the Horizon series and Commander Zavala from the Destiny series.
As far as Commander Zavala stands, his story isn’t finished, given he’s crucial to the narrative and has been for some time. How do you continue a story when someone important to that narrative is no longer around? Bungie has done what was necessary, given there’s more to be told for Zavala, by recasting iconic actor Keith David as the fan-favourite character.
“Commander Zavala has been central to the story we have been telling since the original Destiny, and we have plans to continue his journey.
Keith David, a prolific actor on the stage and in television, film, and games, will assume the English language voice of Zavala in The Final Shape and beyond. Separately, Lance’s existing lines in-game will remain untouched for the upcoming release,” says Bungie.
“I am honored to continue the great work of Lance Reddick as Zavala. Lance captured the character’s sense of integrity so wonderfully. It is my intention to continue that work,” says Keith David.
David and Bungie previously worked together on the Halo series, and both intend to honour the legacy and remain respectful of the Zavala character.
