If the god Ares in Disney+’s Percy Jackson and the Olympians looked instantly recognizable to you, you’re not imagining it. The character is brought to life by Adam Copeland, a world-famous professional wrestler better known by his ring name, Edge. The series reimagines the ancient god of war for the modern age, presenting him as a biker clad in a leather duster who enjoys stirring up conflicts both on the battlefield and on social media.
Who Plays Ares in the Percy Jackson Series?
The actor behind Ares is Adam “Edge” Copeland. Before stepping into the world of Greek gods, Copeland built a legendary career over decades in the WWE, where he became one of the most iconic figures in sports entertainment history. His debut as the Rated-R Superstar Edge in 1998 quickly made him a fan favorite, known for his charismatic, unpredictable, and often villainous persona.
His casting in Percy Jackson and the Olympians connects two very different worlds—mythological fantasy and professional wrestling. Both arenas are built on larger-than-life characters, epic confrontations, and charismatic performers, making Copeland a fitting choice to embody the god of war.
“When he appeared on the back of a motorcycle, wearing a leather duster as the god of war, I may have screamed a little in excitement.”
In the show, Copeland’s Ares is introduced in a memorable scene where he meets Percy, Annabeth, and Grover. He pulls up on a motorcycle and joins them at a diner, discussing a deal over a plate of burgers and fries. This version of Ares retains a intimidating presence but is also sarcastic and deeply invested in modern conflicts, admitting he loves to “start burn wars on Twitter.”
Adam Copeland’s Career Beyond the Wrestling Ring
While Adam Copeland is a hall-of-fame wrestler, his work extends far beyond the ring. His move into acting has been a natural progression, leveraging the character work and physical presence honed in WWE.
Here are some of his other notable acting roles and projects where you might have seen him:
- Vikings (History Channel): Copeland played the warrior Kjetill Flatnose in the popular historical drama series.
- Haven (Syfy): He had a recurring role in this supernatural series.
- The Flash (The CW): He appeared as the villain Albert Desmond / Dr. Alchemy.
- Money Plane: He starred in this action film alongside actors like Kelsey Grammer.
- WWE Productions: He has appeared in several WWE Studios films, including Bending the Rules and Interrogation.
His portrayal of Ares adds to a growing list of performers who have successfully transitioned from sports entertainment to scripted television and film, bringing a unique energy and dedicated fanbase with them.
Ares’s Role in Percy Jackson and the Olympians
In the series, Ares is not just a fearsome deity from mythology but a character with very contemporary problems and attitudes. He meets the young heroes while they are on their quest to recover Zeus’s stolen Master Bolt.
Rather than simply capturing Percy, Ares offers the trio a deal. He presents himself as a helpful cousin, though his motives are typically self-serving and untrustworthy. During their diner meeting, he openly complains about the constant drama within his divine family, particularly finding his sister Athena irritating because she “always wants to be the smartest in the room.”
The show uses Ares to explore how ancient gods would adapt to the 21st century. He is still the instigator of conflict, but now he finds satisfaction in online arguments and manipulation as much as in physical warfare. Grover, understanding his nature, cleverly flatters him by discussing the historical “deep cuts” of wars he’s started, which Ares clearly enjoys.
What’s Next for Ares and the Show’s Future
The first season of Percy Jackson and the Olympians covered the events of the first book, The Lightning Thief. Actor Adam Copeland has already teased developments for the confirmed second season, which will adapt the next novel, The Sea of Monsters.
In interviews, Copeland has suggested the show will take a more mature direction as its young protagonists grow older and face greater dangers. He stated that the tone will evolve to match the characters facing “even more perilous journeys, monsters, and backstabbing friends.” This hints that the stakes will be higher, and the gods, including Ares, may play even more complex roles in the challenges ahead.
Fans of the books will know that Ares’ involvement with Percy Jackson is far from over after their initial meeting, setting the stage for Copeland to potentially return in future seasons.
