A timeless tale has returned with a new twist. To commemorate more than thirty years after the debut of Disney’s animated feature, “Beauty and the Beast” has been reimagined in a fresh fashion. The new ABC special, “Beauty and the Beast: A 30th Celebration,” marks the 30th anniversary of the classic fantasy’s historic Academy Award nomination for best picture, marking the first time an animated film had been nominated in that category.
Jon M. Chu, who also directed “Crazy Rich Asians,” reimagines the classic Disney tale, with H.E.R. (real name Gabriella Sarmiento Wilson) taking the starring role of Belle. The singer, songwriter, and actor discusses assuming her part in an exclusive behind-the-scenes clip that she provided with POPSUGAR.
Who doesn’t want to play a Disney princess, she exclaims, therefore she feels extremely privileged to have the opportunity. My inner child was screaming since “Beauty and the Beast” is one of my favourites. Josh Groban, who co-stars with H.E.R. as the Beast in the television special, says, “The music was the first thing to hit me. Even though there are a lot of people around, everyone is eager to share the tale. I’m very happy to be a part of this machine.”
The entire production of “Beauty and the Beast: A 30th Celebration,” from the dramatics and music to the thrilling live atmosphere, is intended to dazzle viewers. H.E.R. says she’s excited for people to witness how she gives her interpretation of Belle fresh life. “You can see Belle’s fortitude throughout the film, but I believe I’m really attempting to highlight it in order to demonstrate to women that they can be anything they want to be. Naturally, no Black Filipino Belle has ever existed, thus it’s incredibly nice for young Black Filipino girls to witness a Disney princess who resembles them. It’s a unique undertaking. Nobody has ever seen anything like it before.”
For all the information we know on the special, including the cast, the premiere date, first-look pictures, and unreleased videos, keep reading.
“Beauty and the Beast: A 30th Celebration” Exclusive Behind-the-Scenes Clip
“Beauty and the Beast: A 30th Celebration” Cast
H.E.R. portrays Belle in the revamped special, filling the part previously held by Emma Watson in the live-action movie from 2017. The incredibly brilliant Grammy and Academy Award-winning musician makes history by playing the part as the first Afro Filipina woman. The “I can’t believe I get to be a part of the Beauty and the Beast heritage,” the singer-songwriter of “I Can’t Breathe” said in a statement obtained by Deadline. There will be a Black and Filipino Belle in the globe! I get to work with two fantastic directors, Hamish Hamilton and my favourite, Jon M. Chu, and I get to fulfil a lifelong dream of mine to be a Disney princess. It is quite bizarre, and I am incredibly appreciative.”
The 25-year-old R&B artist will join a stellar cast that includes Halle Bailey, Ciara, Jon Batiste, and others in another contemporary adaptation of a beloved musical, “The Color Purple.”
In the “Beauty and the Beast” special, H.E.R. will be joined by Josh Henry as Gaston, David Alan Grier as Cogsworth, Josh Groban as the Beast, and Rita Moreno as the narrator. According to Entertainment Weekly, Martin Short and Shania Twain are also confirmed cast members.
“Beauty and the Beast: A 30th Celebration” Plot
Despite the fact that most people are probably familiar with the narrative, “Beauty and the Beast: A 30th Celebration” displays a fresh take on the old favourite thanks to the abilities of H.E.R. and Chu. In this one-night-only event, viewers may anticipate modern musical performances, outfits, and sets to update the original story.
The story of Belle, who is imprisoned by a cursed prince transformed into a beast, is told in the original plot of “Beauty and the Beast,” which is based on a French fairy tale. However, Belle quickly discovers that there is another side to the beast hidden behind his icy appearance. The prince (and the other residents of his enchanted castle) are put under a spell, but as they continue to become closer via their numerous discussions, their growing love for one another breaks the curse, and the two live happily ever after!
“Beauty and the Beast: A 30th Celebration” Release Date
The two-hour special will be shown on ABC on December 15 at 8 p.m. ET after being live-filmed at Disney Studios. The next day, on December 15, “Beauty and the Beast: A 30th Celebration,” will be released on Disney+.
“Beauty and the Beast: A 30th Celebration” Poster
H.E.R. posted a first-look poster for the special on Instagram on Nov. 10 showcasing her and Groban in modernised, basic versions of Belle and the Beast’s iconic dance sequence attire. H.E.R. is dressed in a lovely, flowing overskirt over a yellow pantsuit. Groban is dressed in black slacks and a cape coat in royal blue.
“Beauty and the Beast: A 30th Celebration” First-Look Pictures
