Disney’s live-action remake of The Princess and the Frog is reportedly moving forward with Colman Domingo and playwright Robert O’Hara co-writing the script, according to Deadline. The story returns to 1920s New Orleans, which means whoever plays Tiana has to sing, dance, and deliver a convincing deep Southern accent on top of carrying Disney’s first Black princess into a new era.
MadameNoire put together a 14-name fan-casting list, and it’s already sparking debate. The Tiana shortlist includes Loren Lott, Normani, Coco Jones, Jayme Lawson, Lovie Simone and Ryan Destiny, with the outlet stressing the role calls for a darker-skinned actress with natural coily hair. For Prince Naveen, the picks include Rome Flynn, Alfred Enoch, Anirudh Pisharody, Regé-Jean Page, Mason Gooding and Avan Jogia, all weighing in for a cocky, lazy royal from the fictional land of Maldonia with a Latin-like accent.
Nothing has been confirmed by Disney yet, but the conversation around representation, colorism and talent is already loud. With Domingo and O’Hara reportedly writing, this remake signals real ambition, and fans are watching every move. So we have to ask: who is your number one pick for Tiana, and who should play Naveen? Sound off in the comments.
About the Author
Local Lawton
Local Lawton is a contributor to LocalBeat, covering local news and community stories.