Everybody’s favorite heroes in the half shell will be back on the big screen in 2016. But this time around, Brittany Ishibashi will be along for the ride.
The Political Animals actress has been cast to take on the role of Karai, Shredder’s daughter and the turtles’ sometimes ally, in Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles 2.
The character has gone through several incarnations in the TMNT comics and cartoons. She was originally introduced as a high-ranking member of the Foot Clan, higher even than Shredder. But in some cartoons and comics, Karai was portrayed as being Shredder’s adopted daughter or biological granddaughter.
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles 2 casts Brittany Ishibashi as Karai! What’s your opinions? – JS pic.twitter.com/RoSxr3HqPk
— Nerdcast (@Nerdcasted) May 27, 2015
Whatever her backstory is, one thing is consistent – her love-hate relationship with the Turtle’s leader, Leonardo.
Ishibashi’s casting comes on the heels of rumors that iconic TMNT villain Krang will finally make an appearance. However, this hasn’t been confirmed yet.
But what is certain is that Karai, Shredder, Rocksteady and a host of villains will appear in the sequel.
New #TMNT2 set pics features Bebop, Rocksteady, Karai & Shredder. http://t.co/nouhubqhw4 (via SplashNews). pic.twitter.com/4jpjSNATlS
— Comics And Coffee (@TheCAndCPodcast) May 29, 2015
The 34-year-old Ishibashi has been seen shooting her scenes alongside Brian Tee, who has been tapped to play the Turtle’s nemesis, Shredder and other Foot Clan members.
The two will join their fellow villains Casey Jones and Bebob, who are played by Stephen Amell and Gary Anthony Williams respectively.
Megan Fox is set to reprise her role as reporter April O’Neill. Will Arnett (Vern Fenwick), Alan Ritchson (Raphael), Pete Ploszek (Leonardo), Jeremy Howard (Donatello), Noel Fischer (Michaelangelo) and Danny Woodburn (Splinter) are also back, along with Tony Shalhoub and Johnny Knoxville.
Alessandra Ambrosio, Tyler Perry, Laura Linney, UFC fighter CM Punk and several members of the Los Angeles Clippers have also been casted.
The sequel to the 2014 hit will be helmed by David Green. The Earth to Echo’s director will try to recreate the success of the first film which grossed over $485 million worldwide.