Screen testing underway for ‘MMPR’ reboot plus new comics series set to debut 2016

MIGHTY MORPHIN’ POWER RANGERS, (Season 1), 1993-96. © Saban Entertainment Inc/ Courtesy: Everett Collection

There’s a lot going on in the world of the ‘Mighty Morphin’ Power Rangers’ with the new film adaption due to be released in early 2017 and the announcement this week of a new comic series due to launch early in the new year.

Earlier in the week news broke that actors have begun screen testing for roles in the film due for release on 13th January 2017. News sites have been reporting that actors KJ Apa (“Shortland Street”), Austin Butler (“Arrow,” “The Carrie Diaries”) and Mitchell Hope (“Descendants”) are all up for the role of Red Ranger, Jason.

Actors testing for the role of Black Ranger Zack include Daniel Zovatto (“It Follows”), Ross Butler (“Chasing Life”) and Brian “Sene” Marc (“Major Crimes”).

Reports are stating that actresses testing for Pink Ranger Kimberly are Naomi Scott (“The Martian”) and Stephanie Scott (“Insidious: Chapter 3”).

No news yet on actors testing for the remaining rangers or villains though the studio are rumoured to be looking for a big name star/stars to play the villains in order to provide more of a draw to audiences.

The script is coming from screenwriters Zack Stentz and Ashley Miller (X-Men: First Class, Thor) whilst original creator Haim Saban is acting as producer along with Brian Casentini and Allison Shearmur.

Next up is the news that a new ‘MMPR’ comic book is set to debut in early 2016. Here’s a quick snapshot at some artwork from the series which is coming from BOOM! Studios which recently acquired the ‘MMRP’ licensing.

An initial #0 will be released in January 2016 featuring the short story published for SDDC this year. The ongoing comic will feature writing from Kyle Higgins (“Nightwing”) but no news yet on who will be providing the artwork.