Dream Casting American Gods For HBO - The “Shadow” Edition

Rumor has it that this Neil Gaiman hit novel is bound for HBO - but who can play the main character? (HINT: It's not Vin Diesel)

HBO has been rumored to have green lit Neil Gaiman's bestselling book, American Gods for a 6-season, 1-hour drama production. Both the author and the popular network (which brought the world Game of Thrones) have been hinting at details about the show, sending the Internet world into a frenzy of what ifs when it comes to the lead characters. To be clear, no one has officially said it's happening and Gaiman himself took to Twitter on June 30th to deny it was inevitable, saying:

Seeing news stories about AMERICAN GODS being "officially greenlit" at HBO. These are just people talking on the internet & not true at all.

— Neil Gaiman (@neilhimself) June 30, 2013

Some have speculated that one of the major hang-ups might be in casting. So in the interest of making good art, let's take a look at the front runners for the leading man, Shadow:

The Criteria

The main character of American Gods certainly provides a unique set of casting challenges. Some details about Shadow's look are:

1. He is 32, but as the guard at the prison in the beginning of the book pointed out, he looks younger.

2. His skin is described as "coffee and cream".

3. He worked out A LOT in prison and worked at a gym and as a bouncer before the events in the book, so the man has muscle.

4. He is, at best, racially vague, though it is hinted that his mother was Native American or perhaps African American, and his father is white.

With these descriptions in mind, let's remember that despite his size and description, Shadow is a soft-spoken, tortured soul. He's a big guy that plays things very small – sort of a Joe Pesci in reverse.

1. Jason Momoa

Ace Showbiz / Via aceshowbiz.com

How do I know that guy? Unless you have been living in the remote recesses of some wasteland forgotten by mankind for the last 3 years, you will recognize this handsome fellow as Khal Drago, king of the Dothraki in HBO’s Game of Thrones. Momoa is also known for his role as Conan in the 2011 remake of Conan the Barbarian, and, if you’re a Stargate nerd, that dude is also Ronon Dex from the Atlantis franchise.

Why is he awesome? Momoa is a favorite among American Gods fans, and it’s no surprise. This Native American/German/Irish/Hawaiian actor is practically made for the role of Shadow, and he has the acting chops to carry the role (as he has proven with his work in GoT). He’s used to the TV production schedule, too. The question is, why wouldn’t HBO cast him?

2. Joe Manganiello

Just Jared / Via justjared.com

How do I know that guy? True Blood fans, rejoice! Your favorite sexy werewolf is also a favorite for our lead. Manganiello is best known for his role as the werewolf, Alcide, in the hit Showtime series, but he’s also a TV veteran. He’s been known for many recurring roles on many popular shows like How I Met Your Mother, One Tree Hill, and E.R.

Why is he awesome? Although he may not totally fit Shadow’s physical description, Manganiello definitely has the build and the talent to pull off a role like Shadow. And, let’s face it, the man has star power and loads of TV street cred.

3. Idris Elba

Essence / Via essence.com

How do I know that guy?This British actor has been well known in the UK for a long time, but has been recently getting significant recognition in the States for his work on critically acclaimed shows such as The Wire and BBC One’s Luther (which also aired on BBC America). He has also been making his mark on Hollywood in films such as Pacific Rim and Thor.

Why is he awesome? Elba is a surprising third choice, but definitely one that still fits Shadow, due to the mystery surrounding Shadow’s mother. And Elba’s talent, not to mention his rise in popularity, makes him an excellent ringer.

4. Dwayne Johnson

Via getthebigpicture.net

How do I know that guy? Come on! This is The Rock we’re talking about! This wrestler turned actor has appeared in dozens of films such as The Scorpion King, Fast & Furious 6, and Gridiron Gang. He also showed his versatility in playing a tooth fairy.

Why is he awesome? In the opinion of this writer, Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, despite being the right height, build, ethnicity, and age for Shadow, is not a good fit for the role. This mostly comes from the unlikelihood of this major star committing to a demanding TV shooting schedule for six seasons. As much of a great entertainer he might be, Johnson might also lack a certain subtlety and quiet that Shadow has, and his lifestyle as a movie actor would have to change dramatically in order for him to commit to a TV show. Although many bloggers may have smelled what The Rock was cooking for this role, this claim seems to have very little substance.

5. The Unknown Actor

Via goodreads.com

How do I know that guy? You don’t! That’s what is so exciting about him! Maybe he’s been working in theatre for the last couple years, or toiling away in commercials or small roles in TV and film. But he’s out there!

Why is he awesome? Just like many of the Game of Thrones actors, he’s a largely undiscovered talent with loads to offer the entertainment industry. Not only that, he’s likely to be a minority actor who has not had the opportunity to get into the spotlight, so he would literally be changing the face of entertainment, bringing more glorious diversity to TV! The possibilities are endless with this Unknown leading man! For Gaiman’s diehard fans, there won’t be as much interest in seeing how some known actor plays Shadow, but being able to see Shadow, free from any actor’s previous history.

For now, we'll have to wait and see. Like most of American Gods, you just have to have faith.