The Resident Evil franchise is once again gearing up for a cinematic revival, and a new report suggests that Austin Abrams (Euphoria, Wolfs) is in talks to take on the lead role in Zach Cregger’s upcoming film. While details about the project remain under wraps, this casting news sparks intriguing speculation about who Abrams might portray in the latest installment of the survival horror saga.
A New Take on Resident Evil?
After multiple film adaptations—ranging from Paul W.S. Anderson’s action-heavy Resident Evil series starring Milla Jovovich to 2021’s Resident Evil: Welcome to Raccoon City—it appears that Cregger (Barbarian) and his team are aiming for a fresh approach. Given Cregger’s history with horror, it’s likely this film will lean into the franchise’s more terrifying roots rather than action-oriented spectacle.
Austin Abrams (Euphoria, Wolfs) is in talks to play the lead in Zach Cregger’s and new #ResidentEvil film
(@DanielRPK) pic.twitter.com/1TDMOudV9R
— Geek Vibes Nation (@GeekVibesNation) March 20, 2025
Abrams, best known for his roles as the brooding Ethan in Euphoria and his role in the George Clooney-produced Wolfs, has a talent for playing introspective and emotionally complex characters. But who exactly could he be stepping into the shoes of in Resident Evil?
Possible Roles for Austin Abrams
- Leon S. Kennedy
If the film takes inspiration from Resident Evil 2 or Resident Evil 4, Abrams could be playing a reimagined version of fan-favorite protagonist Leon S. Kennedy. While his look may not immediately scream “Leon,” his ability to play intelligent yet reluctant heroes could fit the bill. - Billy Coen
An unexpected but interesting choice would be Billy Coen, the ex-Marine-turned-fugitive from Resident Evil Zero. If Cregger’s film explores earlier parts of the timeline, Abrams could bring depth to Billy’s character, portraying him as more than just a rugged survivor. - An Original Character
Given Cregger’s storytelling style, there’s a strong chance this new Resident Evil film could introduce a completely original protagonist. Abrams might play a researcher caught in the chaos of an outbreak, a civilian survivor trapped in a city overrun with the undead, or even someone tied to Umbrella Corporation’s sinister experiments. - Albert Wesker’s Son (Jake Muller)
While unlikely, the possibility exists that the film could incorporate elements from Resident Evil 6, where Jake Muller—Wesker’s son—emerged as a new lead. Abrams doesn’t quite fit the physical mold of Jake, but a more grounded reworking of the character could be in play.
A Horror-Focused Approach
With Zach Cregger at the helm, the new Resident Evil film is expected to emphasize tension, atmosphere, and psychological horror rather than high-octane action. Abrams’ casting suggests that this iteration may follow a protagonist who isn’t a traditional action hero but rather an everyman thrust into a nightmare scenario—a concept that would align with the best aspects of the original games.
As we wait for more details, one thing is certain: Resident Evil is returning to the big screen with a new vision, and Austin Abrams could be at the center of it.
Who do you think he’s playing? Let us know your thoughts!
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