“Avatar: Fire and Ash,” the third installment in the Avatar series, has already hinted at how a major death in Avatar: The Way of Water will shape the story, ahead of its December 19, 2025 release.

In a recent Empire interview, Britain Dalton (who plays Lo’ak) and Trinity Bliss (Tuktirey) shared how Neteyam’s death affects their characters. Dalton says Lo’ak, “born to be a leader,” struggles with guilt over his older brother’s passing, feeling the weight of responsibility he never expected.

Bliss describes the previous film as a pivotal moment for Tuk, marking her first encounter with loss. She notes that while Tuk may never fully recover from the experience, it could also help her grow within the Sully family hierarchy.

Neteyam’s death sends shockwaves through the younger characters: Dalton explains that Lo’ak had never been entrusted with leadership before, and this tragedy forces him into a new role he feels unprepared for. Bliss adds that Tuk, the youngest, is profoundly affected by the loss, experiencing death for the first time, but remains resilient and may rise in standing within the Sully family.”

What Dalton & Bliss’ Comments Mean For Avatar: The Way Of Water

Neteyam’s Death Has Changed Them Forever

Little is known about the plot of Avatar: Fire and Ash, but Dalton and Bliss’ insights reveal how their characters are processing recent events. Neteyam’s death remains a fresh wound, and both siblings will be grappling with it as the story progresses in the third film.

Lo’ak’s self-blame over his brother’s death adds a compelling layer to his character, potentially influencing his future actions. While The Way of Water positioned Lo’ak as an emerging leader within the Sully family, this tragedy could challenge his readiness to take on that role.

Our Take On How Neteyam’s Death Will Influence Avatar: Fire And Ash

The Death Has A Massive Impact

Neteyam’s death is arguably the most impactful death in the Avatar franchise so far, as the character still hasn’t come back. Colonel Quaritch and Dr. Grace both died in the first film, but Quaritch came back as an Avatar, and Sigourney Weaver returned to play Dr. Grace’s daughter Kiri, with her death being made mysterious thanks to their odd connection.

Neteyam is seemingly completely gone, and there are no hints that he will return in the third film. Fans of the franchise will definitely feel his absence in Avatar: Fire and Ash, and his impact on the Sully family seems to be an emotional driver for the film.