The creative team behind Percy Jackson and the Olympians has confirmed that the character of Chris Rodriguez has been recast for Season 2. The executive producers noted that Andrew Alvarez, who was credited with the role in Season 1, continues with the series in a different role.
Percy Jackson executive producers on Chris Rodriguez recasting in Season 2
The executive producers of Percy Jackson and the Olympians have clarified the decision to recast Chris Rodriguez for the show’s second season. The character, a demigod son of Hermes, will now be portrayed by Kevin Chacon. Andrew Alvarez, who was credited as Chris in Season 1, continues in the series under a different role.
Co-creator Jonathan E. Steinberg explained to Entertainment Weeklythat Alvarez’s Season 1 credit was intended as a subtle nod. He said, “He was only really named Chris in the credits [in season 1] , but it was almost an Easter egg for the fans. It wasn’t something that we had really sort of made substantive.” Steinberg also confirmed that Alvarez continues to appear at Camp Half-Blood in a different capacity.
Executive producer Craig Silverstein said the decision was made because Chris plays a larger role in the new season. He explained, “Chris’ role was expanding, but also there was nothing in season 1.” Silverstein added, “And we’re also able to take the character that Andrew played and carry that character forward as well. So I look at it as not a recasting, because the character that Andrew played that you met in season 1 continues, and Chris Rodriguez was always there as Kevin.”
Author Rick Riordan supported the shift. He noted that although Alvarez was credited as Chris, “it was not really ever obvious who that character was.” Riordan added, “So this is really the first time that you see Chris Rodriguez as a full character, so it wasn’t really so much of a recasting thing. It was just finding the way to make that part work with the right person who was available.”
Originally reported by Disheeta Maheshwari on SuperHeroHype.
