Christopher Nolan’s adaptation of The Odyssey has added another star to its all-star cast. Emmy Winner Jon Bernthal is the latest addition to the film. He joins the star-studded cast, which also includes Matt Damon, Tom Holland, Zendaya, Anne Hathaway, Robert Pattinson, Lupita Nyong’o, and Charlize Theron.

Last month the title and plot for Nolan’s follow-up to the Oscar-winning Oppenheimer were announced to be an adaptation of the epic poem composed by Homer from around the 8th century BCE. “Christopher Nolan’s next film The Odyssey is a mythic action epic shot across the world using brand new IMAX film technology,” Universal previously revealed. “The film brings Homer’s foundational saga to IMAX film screens for the first time and opens in theaters everywhere on July 17, 2026.”

As of now, it is unknown who Bernthal will play, as Universal has not commented on his casting.

The poem has become one of the staple texts of Western literature. It follows the story of Odysseus, King of Ithaca, and his treacherous journey back home after fighting in the Trojan War. The story explores themes of heroism, loyalty, and the struggle against divine will. It also includes the stories of Odysseus’ encounters with the Cyclops Polyphemus, the Sirens, and the witch-goddess Circe, culminating in a reunion with his wife Penelope.

Filming for The Odyssey is expected to start shooting next month. This will be Nolan’s second film with Universal, Oppenheimer being the first.

Bernthal won an Emmy for his role as the eldest Berzatto sibling in FX’s The Bear and has recently reprised his role as Frank Castle aka The Punisher in the upcoming Disney+ series Daredevil: Born Again. On the film side, he stars opposite Ben Affleck in the Accountant 2, set to release in theaters April 25. He is also the co-lead opposite Tessa Thompson in Netflix’s adaptation of the popular novel His & Hers, set to release later this year.