A Father's Final Gift: How Lance Reddick's Legacy Shaped 'Percy Jackson' Casting
Discover how the late Lance Reddick's wife helped cast Tamara Smart as Thalia Grace in Percy Jackson and the Olympians, bringing a touching real-world legacy to Season 2.
The gods of Olympus have a funny way of weaving destinies. In a touching twist of fate, the casting of Thalia Grace for Disney+'s Percy Jackson and the Olympians was heavily influenced by the late Lance Reddick. The actor, who portrayed Zeus in the first season, seems to have guided the production from beyond, ensuring his on-screen daughter found the perfect match in Tamara Smart.
A Recommendation from the Heart
According to showrunner Dan Shotz, the pivotal moment happened in mid-July 2024. Stephanie Reddick, Lance's wife, called Shotz to suggest he look at a young actress for the role of Thalia. "She is very important to our family and there is something so magical about her," Stephanie reportedly said of Tamara Smart. While Shotz was initially skeptical about whether a personal recommendation would fit the creative vision, Smart's audition tape reportedly left the entire team in awe.
On December 26, 2025, Shotz shared on social media that lead actor Walker Scobell's first reaction after reading with Smart was a definitive "We're casting her, right?" It wasn't just talent; it was a sense of continuity that felt like a blessing from the man who first held the master bolt.
Bridging Two Worlds: From Resident Evil to Olympus
The connection between Reddick and Smart isn't new. They previously played father and daughter in 2022's Resident Evil series on Netflix. In Percy Jackson, this bond comes full circle as Thalia is the demigod daughter of Zeus. Smart told EW that watching Season 1 helped her grieve Reddick, who passed away at age 60 on March 17, 2023.
While Courtney B. Vance takes over the mantle of Zeus in Season 2, Reddick's presence remains heavy on set. Smart recalled her first day of shooting being "really emotional but incredible," feeling as though she was living the moment for Lance. Vance even led a minute of silence to honor Reddick before filming his own scenes, ensuring the legacy of the original King of Olympus was respected.
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