Disney Is Still Looking for Stars for Its Live-Action Aladdin Movie
With the recent Beauty and the Beast remake, the upcoming Lion King live-action adaptation, and now a new Aladdin movie in the works, it’s clear that Disney is as eager to bring all our old faves to life as we are to see them. For Aladdin, Disney is looking far and wide for its new stars — they even put out a casting call open to anyone to audition via email. The casting notice said shooting was supposed to start in July, but according to new reports, production has been delayed as the search for a cast continues.
As specified in the casting notice, Disney is looking for actors between the ages of 18 and 25 who can sing and dance. According to The Hollywood Reporter, around 2,000 people have auditioned so far.
The role of Aladdin has been hard to nail down, but there are reportedly a few favorites for Jasmine. Per THR, Power Rangers star Naomi Scott, 24, and Tara Sutaria, 21, are rumored to be up for the part, but the final decision will depend on chemistry with the actor chosen to play Aladdin. THR reports that Achraf Koutet, Mena Massoud, and George Kosturos have all been considered by Disney for the leading role.
As for the other roles in the film, earlier reports said Will Smith was in talks to play the genie, who was voiced by the charismatic Robin Williams in 1992. And THR reports that a well-known actor is being considered for the role of super-villain Jafar, too.
While we would love to know who to expect for the roles, it’s great to see Disney taking such care in picking actors for these beloved characters. Filming has reportedly been pushed to August, so it looks like we may have a clue as to who will be playing Aladdin and Jasmine soon!
Who would you cast as Aladdin and Jasmine? Let us know @BritandCo!
(h/t The Hollywood Reporter; photo via Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Disney)
