New character Kung Jin will make the leap from video game to live-action series when actor/model Lewis Tan debuts in Mortal Kombat X. The actor confirmed his role via Instagram, sharing a new photo in costume as the thief turned Shaolin Monk. It confirms popular speculation about his role sparked by previous photos.
Mortal Kombat Online recently confirmed the completion of what will be the third webseries, once released. Tan calls the project "Mortal Kombat X". An official release date is still unknown.
A reported casting call revealed unconfirmed details of the role, describing the character in terms relevant to the games incarnation. Kung Jin is a cousin of legendary fallen hero Kung Lao, who turns to a life of thievery, before a pivotal encounter with Raiden restores him to the hero's path.
A filming call sheet from the series confirms the presence of other new characters from Mortal Kombat X [full story], appearing opposite returning star Casper Van Dien as Johnny Cage. Van Dien -- who joined the web cast in Mortal Kombat: Legacy II -- recently shared photos with original big screen Johnny Cage Linden Ashby [full story].
August coincides with the twentieth anniversary of Mortal Kombat's first foray into live-action adaptation. Mortal Kombat: The Movie debuted in theatres in 1995. Directed by British up-and-comer Paul W. Anderson, the film went on to achieve massive success, and remains an exception to gaming's difficulties in Hollywood. The timing may not be a coincidence.
Looking forward to live-action MKX? Register to follow and discuss the webseries on the Media & Merchandise forum! Special thanks to kommunity user Siang for sharing the photo! Support the site by liking & sharing stories via @MK_Online, Facebook & YouTube!