'Invincible' Star Steven Yeun Makes Return to 'Avatar' Universe

Award-winning actor Steven Yeun has joined the voice cast of the upcoming animated feature set in the world of "Avatar: The Last Airbender."

The film, which will center on an adult version of Aang, marks Yeun's return to the Avatar universe after previously voicing Wan, the first Avatar, in "The Legend of Korra."

Details about Yeun's character remain under wraps, with Paramount and Nickelodeon keeping quiet about which of the Four Nations his character might represent. This secrecy has only heightened anticipation for the project among the franchise's dedicated fanbase.

The feature is scheduled for theatrical release on January 30, 2026, through Paramount Pictures. It represents the first installment in what's planned as a trilogy of theatrical releases developed by Nickelodeon Movies and Avatar Studios.

Star-Studded Voice Cast

Yeun joins an already impressive roster of talent. At CinemaCon 2024, Paramount revealed several key cast members:

Singer-songwriter-actor Eric Nam as Aang
Dave Bautista in an unnamed villain role
Dionne Quan as Toph
Jessica Matten as Katara
Román Zaragoza as Sokka

Animation Veterans at the Helm

The project is in experienced hands with series alum Lauren Montgomery directing. Her impressive portfolio includes "Superman: Doomsday," "Wonder Woman," and "Justice League: Crisis on Two Earths." William Mata, known for "Dora and the Fantastical Creatures," serves as co-director.

Original series creators Michael DiMartino and Bryan Konietzko are executive producing alongside Eric Coleman, ensuring the film stays true to the beloved source material. Producers include Maryann Garger and Latifa Ouaou working alongside Konietzko and DiMartino.

Story Set Years After the Original Series

Unlike previous Avatar content, this new feature will explore the world of Avatar with its core characters as adults, taking place years after the events of the original "Avatar: The Last Airbender" series. This time jump offers fresh storytelling possibilities while building on the rich foundation established by the acclaimed Nickelodeon shows.

Yeun's Animation Experience

Yeun brings substantial voice acting credentials to the project. He currently stars in Prime Video's hit series "Invincible" and has lent his voice to numerous animated productions including "Tuca & Bertie," the "Tales of Arcadia" franchise, "Voltron: Legendary Defender," and "Final Space."

His recent work has garnered significant acclaim. For his performance in Netflix's "Beef," Yeun won Emmy, SAG, and Golden Globe awards. He received an Oscar nomination for "Minari" and has recently appeared in Bong Joon Ho's "Mickey 17" alongside Robert Pattinson, Naomi Ackie, Toni Collette, and Mark Ruffalo.

Currently, Yeun is in production on Ben Affleck's "Animals" for Netflix and recently wrapped filming on Joe Carnahan's "RIP," where he stars opposite Matt Damon and Affleck. His diverse filmography also includes "Love Me" with Kristen Stewart, Jordan Peele's "Nope," "The Humans," "Sorry to Bother You," and "Okja."

Many fans will also remember Yeun from his breakout role in AMC's "The Walking Dead," where he portrayed Glenn Rhee for six seasons.

The untitled Aang film represents an exciting return to animation for the versatile actor, reconnecting him with a universe where he already made a significant contribution through his portrayal of the pivotal character Wan.