Let’s Fan-Cast The Live-Action Adaptation of 'The Princess and the Frog'!

Emma Watson as Belle, Lily James as Cinderella, and on the tip of everyone’s tongue these days, Halle Bailey as Ariel – whether your favorite princess falls for a beast or lives under the sea, there’s no denying that watching these actresses bring such beloved animated characters to life fills us with excitement and anticipation for future live-action adaptations. 

Upon the recent release of The Little Mermaid -- and early next year, Snow White starring Golden Globe winner Rachel Zegler in the titular role -- we’re reminded that there’s one princess whose story is in dire need of retelling…

It was reported in March of this year that a live-action version of The Princess and the Frog was in development at Disney. Originally released in 2009 and based on the E.D. Baker novel, The Frog Princess, the film centers around Tiana, a 19-year-old girl from 1920s New Orleans who finds herself on a journey of self-discovery when she’s turned into a frog upon kissing Naveen, a prince-turned-frog who’s been hexed by a witch doctor, Dr. Facillier. 

Social media has been buzzing about what, where, when, and how, but now is the time to make the case for who should star in the forthcoming adaptation!

Princess Tiana: Normani or Samara Joy

Known for her hit songs and stage presence, Normani stands out as a frontrunner not just because of her talent, but also thanks to the fact she, like Tiana, is a New Orleans native.

After taking home the Grammy for Best New Artist earlier this year, Samara Joy’s recent cover of “Almost There”, an Oscar-nominated song from the soundtrack of The Princess and the Frog, was praised across social media. 

Prince Naveen: Anriudh Pisharody or Ari’el Stachel

Based on his guest appearance during the third season of "Never Have I Ever", Anriudh Pisharody was born to play Prince Naveen.

Ari’el Stachel, the Tony-winning performer that you may recognize from Don’t Worry Darling, has the perfect voice (and look) for the role!

Dr. Facilier: John Legend or Lizzo

If they wanted to play it safe, Disney could pick EGOT-winning singer and actor, John Legend.

The boldest decision, though, would be gender-swapping the character of Dr. Facillier to a woman and cast Lizzo, whose recent performance in "The Mandalorian" proves she’s not just a great singer but an actress too.

Charlotte La Bouff: Sabrina Carpenter or Joey King

Sabrina Carpenter – because she’s a Disney alum.

Joey King – because she has the skill. 

Eudora: Anika Noni Rose or Kerry Washington

Casting Anika Noni Rose, who voiced Princess Tiana in the animated film, as Eudora would be a charming nod to the original – but it may, ultimately, confuse fans.

Post Netflix’s The Prom, Kerry Washington deserves another movie musical on her resumé.

Mama Odie: Jenifer Lewis or Whoopi Goldberg

It’s hard to imagine anyone else in the role of Mama Odie other than Jenifer Lewis, who voiced the character in the original film.

If Lewis passes, give it to national treasure Whoopi Goldberg.

Stream The Princess and the Frog today on Disney+ and let us know who you think should nab a role in the upcoming adaptation.