Earlier this year, the gaming community mourned the unexpected passing of Lance Reddick, known for his roles in Destiny 2 and Horizon Zero Dawn. Reddick’s portrayal of Commander Zavala in Destiny 2 had made him an integral part of the game’s lore, and his engagement with fans had earned him a special place in the community’s heart. Recasting such an iconic character was always going to be a challenging task.
Today, Bungie, the developer of Destiny 2, officially announced that the role of Commander Zavala will be taken over by the legendary actor Keith David. David, who has an impressive film and television career including appearances in notable productions like “The Thing” and “Community,” has been chosen to carry on the legacy of Lance Reddick.
Keith David’s talent extends beyond the realm of live-action performances, as he has also lent his voice to various characters in animated films and video games. Notable roles include Dr. Facilier in “The Princess and the Frog” and Keith David in “Saint’s Row IV.” However, it is his portrayal of The Arbiter in the Halo games that has cemented his status as a legendary figure in video game acting. His previous collaboration with Bungie further strengthens the anticipation surrounding his tenure as Commander Zavala.
In an official statement released by Bungie, Keith David expressed his gratitude for being chosen to continue the great work started by Lance Reddick. He acknowledged Reddick’s remarkable portrayal of Zavala, emphasizing his commitment to maintaining the character’s sense of integrity in his performance: “I am honored to continue the great work of Lance Reddick as Zavala. Lance captured the character’s sense of integrity so wonderfully. It is my intention to continue that work.”
With Keith David stepping into the shoes of Commander Zavala, Destiny 2 players can look forward to a new chapter in the game’s narrative, while honoring the legacy left behind by Lance Reddick.