Top 10 ‘The Odyssey’ Characters, Explained

Matt Damon as Odysseus

Played by Matt Damon, who is famous for films like 'Good Will Hunting', 'The Martian', and the 'Bourne' series, we will see him as the legendary king of Ithaca and the main hero of 'The Odyssey'. Unlike many warriors in Greek mythology who rely mainly on strength, Odysseus is known for his intelligence, clever planning, and ability to survive through strategy and deception.

Zendaya As Athena

Zendaya, widely recognized for 'Euphoria', will step into the role of Athena. As the goddess of wisdom and warfare, Athena becomes one of Odysseus’s strongest divine allies throughout his journey. She frequently guides and protects him, often influencing events behind the scenes with strategy and intelligence rather than brute force.

Tom Holland As Telemachus

Tom Holland, aka, our Spider-Man, will appear as Telemachus, the son of Odysseus. Growing up without his father by his side, Telemachus struggles with uncertainty and the pressure of carrying his father’s legendary name. However, his journey slowly transforms him from an unsure young man into someone more confident and determined. Through his search for Odysseus, Telemachus becomes a symbol of hope and the future of Ithaca.

Robert Pattinson As Antinous

Robert Pattinson, the star of the 'Twilight' saga, takes on the role of Antinous. He is one of the most arrogant and dangerous suitors competing for Penelope’s hand while Odysseus remains missing. Antinous represents the corruption and disorder spreading through Ithaca during the king’s absence. Cruel and entitled, he becomes a major threat inside Odysseus’s own household.

Mia Goth As Melantho

Mia Goth, who became a standout modern horror star through films like X, is cast as Melantho. She is a maid in the household of Odysseus and Penelope who eventually betrays her mistress by siding with the suitors. Her actions reveal how deeply corruption and division have spread through Ithaca during Odysseus’s absence.

Jon Bernthal As Menelaus

Jon Bernthal, 'The Walking Dead' famed actor, will portray Menelaus, the king of Sparta. As the husband of Helen, Menelaus is deeply tied to the origins of the Trojan War. His role in The Odyssey helps expand the larger mythological world surrounding Odysseus’s story. Menelaus represents both the cost of war and the difficult process of restoring order after years of conflict and destruction.

John Leguizamo As Eumaeus

Remembered for films like 'Moulin Rouge!' and 'John Wick', John Leguizamo takes on the role of Eumaeus. He is Odysseus’s loyal swineherd and one of the few people who remains faithful to the king during his long absence. Despite his humble position, Eumaeus is kind, trustworthy, and deeply devoted to Odysseus and his household. His loyalty becomes especially important when Odysseus finally returns to Ithaca.

Charlize Theron as Calypso

Known for powerful performances in 'Monster', 'Mad Max: Fury Road', and 'Atomic Blonde', Charlize Theron is set to play Calypso, the mysterious nymph who keeps Odysseus on her island for years. Calypso offers him comfort, love, and even immortality, creating an emotional conflict between temptation and duty. While she genuinely cares for him, her actions also prevent Odysseus from returning home to his family.

Benny Safdie as Agamemnon

Benny Safdie, who is already popular for co-directing 'Uncut Gems' and appearing in 'Oppenheimer', he will play Agamemnon, the commander of the Greek forces during the Trojan War. Agamemnon is a powerful but controversial ruler whose legacy is filled with ambition, leadership, and tragedy.

Anne Hathaway as Penelope

After memorable performances in 'Les Misérables' and 'The Devil Wears Prada 2', Anne Hathaway is set to portray Penelope, the loyal queen of Ithaca. During Odysseus’s long absence, Penelope is forced to deal with countless suitors trying to marry her and claim the throne. Instead of giving in, she uses patience, intelligence, and emotional strength to protect her family and maintain hope that her husband will return one day.