There's nothing like that feeling of making your parents proud, and Jason Momoa is living proof. The Aquaman star had the best reaction after finding out that his real-life son is officially joining the cast of Dune: Part Three, and it’s the kind of heartfelt, wholesome content the internet can’t get enough of.
Back in June 2025, news broke that Nakoa-Wolf Momoa would be stepping into the Dune universe, taking on the role of Leto II in the upcoming Dune: Part Three. Leto II is the twin offspring of Paul Atreides and Chani, played by Timothée Chalamet and Zendaya. With this role, Nakoa-Wolf will make his feature film debut.
Since his official casting, fans have eagerly awaited any sign of Jason’s reaction. Now, the wait is over. At the Hawaii premiere of his new miniseries Chief of War, Jason finally shared his thoughts when speaking to Extra. Beaming with pride, he revealed that his 16-year-old son, Nakoa-Wolf, landed the role in Dune: Part Three completely on his own. No Hollywood favors, no help from dad.
Jason then goes on to jokingly say his son is in for a "rude awakening," meaning that the entertainment industry is tough, and his son is about to experience the hard work, discipline, and challenges that come with having a professional job for the first time. However, he respects his son's talent. He tells Extra that he couldn't have done what his son is doing at that age, such as meeting with a director like Denis Villeneuve and holding his own.
“A rude awakening is what he’s in for. He’s into the workforce for the first time. It’s going to be good. He did it on his own. I don’t want to help him, and he’s done it all on his own, and good for him. You want your children to be better than you, and I really, actually believe he is. I couldn’t do what he’s doing at his age. There’s no way I could sit in a room with Denis Villeneuve and hold my own. I was on Baywatch at 19. He’s 16 and holding s--- down with Denis Villeneuve.”
Nakoa-Wolf joins his father in Dune: Part Three. Jason is set to reprise his role as Duncan Idaho in the sequel, so he'll be sharing the screen with his son for the first time in a major film. He previously portrayed the Duncan character in Dune, but he did not return in the role for Dune: Part Two.
Dune: Part Three is an epic space opera co-written by Denis Villeneuve and Jon Spaihts. Villeneuve is also signed on to direct. It's based on Frank Herbert's 1969 sci-fi novel, Dune Messiah, and production is currently underway on the new film. Florence Pugh returns in her role as Princess Irulan from the second movie. Newcomer Ida Brooke joins the cast in the role of Ghanima Atreides, Leto II's twin sister. The sequel is expected to hit theaters on Dec. 18, 2026.
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