Freida Pinto of Slumdog Millionaire fame might be the ideal actor to play Ash in a proposed TV adaptation of Blade Runner 2039, according to the creators. Aahna “Ash” Ashina’s first appeared in Blade Runner 2019, followed by Blade Runner 2029 – and finally, with the release of Blade Runner 2039, the Savior of Replicants’ journey comes to an end.
Speaking with AIPT, the writers of Blade Runner 2039 #12 discussed the conclusion to Ash’s five-year spanning decades long story arc, as well as considering what’s next for the character – including a potential jump to the big or small screen.
The creators pondered what an adaptation of their tale might look like, including who would portray their protagonist – with one of them suggesting Freida Pinto from Slumdog Millionaire might be the perfect choice to play Ash in the future.
When asked if either creator would be excited if their Blade Runner comic series got the TV treatment, writer Mike Johnson was the first to answer, admitting he’d “be nervous about whether they get Ash’s character right.” He continued discussing his concerns, expressing a protectiveness over about the character he created. He went a step further in saying that he didn’t think the ideal actor for Ash is a familiar face, instead suggested that he’d rather see an unknown actor play the part, stating: “That person is out there. Ash would be someone we’ve never seen before.”
While artist Andres Guinaldo shared Johnson’s sentiment about how awesome an adaptation of Blade Runner 2039 would be, he gave an alternative perspective regarding who could play Ash. Guinaldo elaborates that neither he nor Johnson ever had a specific actress in mind while envisioning Ash in their comics, but if he had to name someone, the star of Slumdog Millionaire sprang to mind. “For her Hindi origin, she could be the protagonist of Slumdog Millionaire, Freida Pinto,” Guinaldo’s exact wording. “I think she fits Ash’s physique and personality.”
Freida Pinto played Latika in Slumdog Millionaire. More than just a love interest or a damsel, Latika showcased the resilience necessary to survive a cutthroat lifestyle. Ash is highlighted to have a similar resilience throughout Blade Runner 2039, which alone should be able to qualify Pinto as a strong candidate for the part. Additionally, post-Slumdog roles in projects like Trishna, Intrusion, and Love, Sonia are some examples where she showcases the ability to work in a grittier, edgier role primed for Ash. When Hollywood begins casting for Blade Runner 2039, Freida Pinto should be at the top of their list.
Source: AIPT Comics