Let’s be real—Viggo Mortensen IS Aragorn. From the moment he stepped onto the screen in The Lord of the Rings, sword in hand and eyes burning with quiet intensity, he became the definitive version of Tolkien’s legendary ranger-turned-king. No one else has ever brought such a perfect mix of grit, nobility, and raw emotion to the role.

But… if Hollywood ever dared to reboot The Lord of the Rings, who could possibly take on the challenge? Who has the presence, skill, and sheer badassery to even come close?

Here are my top picks for actors who could maybe (just maybe) do Aragorn justice:

1. Keanu Reeves – The Unexpected Fan Favorite

Keanu as Aragorn? Hear me out.
He’s got the mystery and quiet strength down to a science.
He can absolutely handle swordplay and action sequences (John Wick, anyone?).
He’s got the kind of world-weary yet noble aura that Aragorn carries throughout the trilogy.

Keanu might not be the obvious choice, but tell me you wouldn’t love to hear him whisper, “I do not fear death.” Chills.

2. Henry Cavill – The Perfect Fantasy Hero

If there’s one actor who could step into Aragorn’s boots and make it look effortless, it’s Henry Cavill.
He’s already played an iconic fantasy warrior (The Witcher).
He has the physical presence and gravitas to command an army.
His love for Tolkien and fantasy lore means he’d respect the role instead of just playing it.

Honestly? Cavill might be too perfect. His Aragorn would feel like an unstoppable warrior-king, whereas Mortensen gave us a more grounded, reluctant hero. But if you want Aragorn to look like he could slay orcs in his sleep, Cavill is your man.

3. Richard Madden – A Proven King in the North

You probably know him as Robb Stark from Game of Thrones, and that alone proves he’s got what it takes.
He can command armies and deliver powerful speeches.
He’s got the brooding, noble warrior vibe that Aragorn needs.
He’s no stranger to wearing a crown—even if things didn’t end so well last time.

Madden could bring a slightly younger and more politically savvy take on Aragorn. But could he match Viggo’s raw intensity? That’s the question.

4. Oscar Isaac – The Wild Card Pick

Okay, this might be a curveball, but Oscar Isaac would be incredible.
He’s got the range to pull off both Aragorn’s quiet moments and his fierce battle cries.
He can play tough, rugged, and morally complex (Dune, Moon Knight).
He’d bring a fresh, unique energy to the role.

If you want a more charismatic and roguish Aragorn, Oscar could absolutely deliver.

5. Nikolaj Coster-Waldau – The Veteran Warrior Choice

We’ve seen him play a complicated, battle-hardened knight as Jaime Lannister in Game of Thrones. Now imagine him as a wiser, more experienced Aragorn.
He’s got the acting chops to bring out the kingly side of the character.
He can wield a sword with style.
He’s already proved he can play a man struggling with destiny and redemption—sounds familiar, right?

If Hollywood ever wanted a slightly older Aragorn who’s already walked a long, painful road, Nikolaj would absolutely kill it.

So… Who Would You Choose?

No one will ever replace Viggo Mortensen, but if we had to recast Aragorn, these actors could at least try to carry the sword of Andúril.

Now, it’s your turn! Who do YOU think could step into Aragorn’s boots? Drop your suggestions in the comments, and I’ll try to create an AI-generated image of them as Aragorn!