Disney Released the First Pics of Will Smith’s Genie in ‘Aladdin’ and People Are Losing It

Nicole Villeneuve
Dec 19, 2018

Disney previously released a few vague teasers for its upcoming live-action remake of Aladdin, but now the first photos of the cast in character have debuted — and they have fans a little bit confused.

Three of the stars from the upcoming Guy Ritchie-directed film appeared on the cover ofEntertainment Weekly on Wednesday, December 19, including Mena Massoud as Aladdin, Naomi Scott as Princess Jasmine, and, Will Smith as Genie, a character originally voiced by Robin Williams in the 1992 animated classic.

Smith’s character — not at all, it turns out, a CGI Genie — inspired a particularly vocal response on Twitter. And while most of the reactions were not in favor of the portrayal, they were at least very, very funny.

“I love the CW,” Thrillist writer Emma Stefansky‏ commented, suggesting that the film looked more like a teen supernatural drama than a sure-to-be blockbuster.

Writer Laura Bradley wanted to know, “WHY IS ALADDIN DRESSED LIKE A DAD WEARING ALL HIS BEST LL BEAN ON A FISHING TRIP?”

Many people said that Will Smith’s Genie reminded them of Shazaam, a fake early ’90s movie that, according to internet memes, starred Sinbad as a genie — but that never actually existed.

But speaking of Sinbad, another user pointed out that Smith’s Genie reminded them of when he guest starred on the Nickelodeon show All That.

Comedy Twitter account OhNoSheTwint even re-wrote the theme song from Smith’s hit sitcom The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, but about Genie and his life. “Now this is a story all about how my lamp got stuck in a cave underground, and I’d like to take a minute, just listen to me, I’ll tell you how I can turn you into a prince named Ali,” the updated lyrics read.

Smith told Entertainment Weekly that he wasn’t trying to recreate William’s original character in any way, but hoped to pay homage to the late comedian’s famous portrayal. “Just the flavor of the character would be different enough and unique enough that it would be in a different lane, versus trying to compete,” he said, adding that he tapped into his long roster of acting roles over the years to help inform the character.

One Disney executive described Smith’s Genie as “part Fresh Prince, part Hitch” — and we’d say that looks about right.

Aladdin is set to hit theaters on May 24, 2019.

What do you think of Will Smith’s Genie? Let us know @BritandCo.

(photos via Walt Disney Studios + Frazer Harrison/Getty Images)

Fellow Ozians, The 'Wicked: Part Two' Release Date Just Got Bumped Up!

As a theater kid and movie fanatic, I simply cannot stop singing the Wicked soundtrack, checking out all the new Mattel dolls, and re-watching the new Wicked trailer. And I will absolutely be wearing Glinda's signature pink when the Wicked movie flies into theaters November 22. But while this is sure to be the movie event of the year, it's only going to be part one of the story.

Just like the Broadway musical is split into two acts, Wicked is going to be in two parts. (And I have a hunch this year's installment will end with "Defying Gravity," just like Act I of the musical). But good news Ozians: the Wicked: Part Tworelease date just got bumped up! Here's everything you need to know about Wicked: Part Two before the movies change us for good :).

When is Wicked: Part Two coming out?

Universal Pictures

Wicked: Part Two Release Date

Wicked: Part Two will hit theaters November 21, 2025. While the movie was originally slated for November 26, 2025, Universal Pictures decided to bump up the release date.

The first Wicked movie also faced a schedule change, moving from November 27 to November 22, 2024, the same day as Gladiator II!

What happens in Wicked Part 2?

Universal Pictures

Wicked: Part Two Plot

While we don't officially know at what point in the story the Wicked movie ends, we do know that Act II of the musical is all about Oz's response to Elphaba becoming the "Wicked Witch of the West." Glinda becomes beloved public figure "Glinda the Good," but realizes just how much her dreams have cost her as Elphaba is gone and Fiyero, now Glinda's fiancé, is determined to find Elphaba no matter the cost.

Wicked: Part Two is sure to feature songs like "As Long As You're Mine," "No Good Deed," and "For Good" — and Cynthia Erivo, Ariana Grande, and Jonathan Bailey are going to absolutely slay.

Who's in the cast of Wicked: Part Two?

Universal Pictures

Wicked: Part Two Cast

Cynthia Erivo, Ariana Grande, and Jonathan Bailey will reprise their roles as Elphaba, Glinda, and Fiyero, respectively. Wicked: Part Two will also star Jeff Goldblum, Michelle Yeoh, Ethan Slater, Marissa Bode, Bowen Yang, and Keala Settle.

Why is the Wicked movie taking so long?

Universal Pictures

The Wicked movie has had a long road to get to its release! News of the movie adaptation originally broke in 2016, with an intended release date of 2019. But the COVID-19 pandemic, and a few behind-the-scenes details, pushed the movie to 2024 instead.

"As we prepared this production over the last year, it became increasingly clear that it would be impossible to wrestle the story of WICKED into a single film without doing some real damage to it," director Jon M. Chu tweeted in April of 2022, announcing the story would arrive in two installments.

"With more space, we can tell the story of WICKED as it was meant to be told while bringing even more depth and surprise to the journeys of these beloved characters."

Did they finish filming Wicked Part 2?

Cynthia Erivo/Instagram

The good news is that, even though we have to wait a year to see Wicked: Part Two, filming is already done! On January 26, Cynthia Erivo shared a breathtaking photo of her silhouette as Elphaba flying on a broom. "I’ve been trying to think of what I’d say when this day finally came, and I’m failing miserably, because honestly there aren’t enough words to fully express what this experience has meant to me," she says on Instagram.

"The universe will take things away to make space for the grand gifts it has waiting for us," she continues. "THIS moment, this film, these people, this cast, this crew, this director, my Glinda, were the Grandest gift I could ever have asked for, and I am eternally grateful for the chance to bring you This Elphie. I hope when you meet her, you’ll love her as much and as fiercely as I do. And with that I say, that’s a wrap for me, Elphie out!! 💚💚💚"

Ariana Grande shared a similar image of her own silhouette on January 25, saying, "like a handprint on my heart," which is a lyric from "For Good." I love these women so much!

Let us know what you're most excited to see in Wicked: Part Two on Facebook, and see if you spotted this Wicked trailer Easter egg.

Lead image via Universal Pictures

wickedpop cultureentertainmentmovies

This One Moment Proves Brooke Davis Is The Best Character On 'One Tree Hill'

The moment we met Brooke Davis (played by Sophia Bush) in the second episode of One Tree Hill, I knew I'd love her. I didn't realize, however, that she'd become one of my favorite TV show characters of all time. The CW series, which ran from 2003-2012, turns 21 on September 23, and it's widely regarded as one of the best teen dramas. In addition to centering relationships, the angst of coming of age, and Carolina Basketball, One Tree Hill stands apart because of how poetic its story is. Haley, Lucas, Peyton, Brooke, and Nathan all wrestle with growing up in a relatable and emotional way. And Brooke far and above becomes the best part of the show as she evolves from stereotypical mean girl to fashion designer to mom and business owner.

Warner Bros. Television/The CW

She's complicated, sassy, and, unlike a lot of other female characters, far from one-dimensional. At the beginning of the series she intentionally makes questionable decisions — like lying about being pregnant with Lucas' baby in season 1 or making fun of the fact Peyton had two dead moms by season 3 (I still can't believe this, TBH). But as Brooke matures, she finds she finds strength in her vulnerability. And before she helped land her attacker Xavier in prison, became a mother, and reopened Karen's Café, a single moment solidifies Brooke as THE One Tree Hill character for me: the photo project.

Warner Bros. Television/The CW

In season 4, episode 13, "Pictures of You," the students at Tree Hill High are paired up for a photo project to help them get to know each another better. Brooke gets paired up with Chase (Stephen Colletti), and after admitting she lied about a test because she worried she wasn't good enough for him, Brooke reveals just how inadequate she feels. This is such a shocking conversation to watch as a viewer because at first glance, Brooke has it all: she's popular, she's wealthy, and she's gorgeous. But knowing someone so seemingly invincible feels that way made me feel seen.

Chase ends up taking Brooke's yearbook photo with "not smart enough," "not talented enough," "not pretty enough," and other insecurities written across the projector. And even though these horrible thoughts literally cover Brooke's skin (which is exactly how my insecurities feel sometimes — obvious and visible), she looks into the camera with the tiniest smile.

Warner Bros. Television/The CW

"That scene was so personal to me," Sophia Bush revealed to Buzzfeed. "That was something that I had opened up to our writers about in my own life. I remember when I read that script, I felt so ashamed. I felt so exposed reading it on the page. I remember feeling so embarrassed and being like, 'Oh my god, I was having a conversation about motivation for characters, and they're using it. I don't know if this is okay.' It was my first lesson that if you can be courageous enough to open the thing that you're most afraid of, people won't back away from you; they'll lean toward you and say, 'Wow, you, too?' To create that for our audience and to begin to learn that for myself as a young woman was really a profound experience. That was a big one."

Warner Bros. Television/The CW

This moment solidifies Brooke as a character we all love simply because it's so relatable. And seeing how Brooke reclaims her worth based on the fact that she's enough on her own, that her value doesn't depend on how much she has to offer, makes me feel more empowered every time I watch it.

"People are gonna label you," Chase says in a voiceover of the scene. "It's how you overcome those labels, that's what matters." And I think that's what One Tree Hill — and Brooke Davis — is all about.

Warner Bros. Television/The CW

Great news for One Tree Hill fans: Sophia Bush (and Brooke Davis) are returning to our screens! Read up on The Latest One Tree Hill Sequel News to find out more.

Lead image via Warner Bros. Television/The CW

one tree hillpop cultureentertainmenttv

37 Self-Care Essentials for an At-Home Spa Day

Everyone deserves a little self-care, and you can create your perfect at-home spa day with these 37 carefully curated self-care essentials designed to pamper and rejuvenate. These must-have items span from luxurious face masks to soothing bath products and help you transform your space into a serene retreat. Relax and indulge without leaving the comfort of your own home.

Thanks for reading about our favorite finds from across the internet! FYI: We participate in affiliate programs and may get a share of the revenue from your purchase.

Use These Shower Steamers for Ultimate Relaxation

Amazon

You have probably seen bath bombs taking the world by storm, but if you're not a bath person, you can't really use them. However, with these shower steamers, you can let the steam spread their essential oils to keep your skin happy and hydrated and your mind relaxed.

See it on Amazon

Cleanse Your Skin Using These Bath Bombs

Amazon

Skincare and relaxation often go hand in hand, and that's what we love most about these bath bombs. If you are a bath person, you will love setting these in the water and letting the soap and essential oils spread all over your skin. They are nourishing and relaxing.

See it on Amazon

Steam Your Eyes With This Mask

Amazon

We hold a lot of stress and tension around our eyes, especially because we spend a lot of time looking intensely at screens causing eye fatigue. With these disposable steam masks, you can give your eyes a full steam treatment and help those muscles relax.

See it on Amazon

These Eye Pads Are Great for Puffiness

Amazon

If you have noticed that your undereyes are puffy or you feel like you are more bloated than normal, using fruit to cool down the skin around your eyes can reduce that puffiness. With these eye pads that are fruit-infused, you can reduce that puffy area easily.

See it on Amazon

Take Care of Your Hands and Feet Using Gloves

Amazon

We often forget to give our hands and feet some tender love and care despite the fact that we use them the most. With these moisturizing gloves, you can put them on your feet or your hands to nourish and hydrate the skin and keep it moisturized.

See it on Amazon

Reduce Undereye Bags Using These Masks

Amazon

These under-eye masks are actually lifesavers. If you have struggled with under-eye bags from lack of sleep or stress, you will love these masks. You simply apply them right under your eye and let them rest there for the required time.

See it on Amazon

Relax in the Bath With This Pillow

Amazon

This bath pillow is one of those products you never knew you needed, but it will change your life. Simply put the pillow in the bath and relax against it while you sip your wine or read a good book.

See it on Amazon

This Bath Soak Will Nourish Your Skin

Amazon

Having relaxing bath soaks and salts on hand is always a great idea if you take a bath as part of your self-care routine. This bath soak will keep your skin fresh, scrubbed, and nourished as you go about your day.

See it on Amazon

Keep Your Lips Plump Using These Masks

Amazon

Lip masks are growing in popularity all over social media as the latest and greatest skincare product. The secret is that they actually are. Using these lip masks keeps your lips happy, healthy, moisturized, and nourished so they will look their plumpest.

See it on Amazon

Use This Headband Set to Wash Your Face

Amazon

You've probably seen these soft headbands on social media and wondered what they were for. These soft headbands keep your hair away from your face as you wash it or do your skincare and makeup routine. Plus, the wristbands keep water from running down your arms.

See it on Amazon

Cool Your Skin Using a Full Face Ice Mask

Amazon

One of the best ways to calm and regulate your nervous system is to use something to cool down your face. With this full face ice mask, you can instantly cool yourself down and calm yourself down at the same time.

See it on Amazon

This Spa Kit Provides Quick Self-Care

Amazon

Sometimes, we don't have enough time in the day for a full self-care routine, and that's okay. With this 15-minute spa kit, you can do a few face, foot, hand, and hair masks to feel your best as quickly as possible.

See it on Amazon

Pamper Your Feet With a Heated Foot Bath

Amazon

Your feet are often forgotten about when it comes to day-to-day care. With this foot bath, you can show your feet some love for all the hard work they do for you.

See it on Amazon

Reduce Fine Lines and Puffiness With An Ice Roller

Amazon

As we said before, cooling down your face is one of the best ways to regulate your nervous system. However, another benefit to cooling your skin is reducing fine lines and wrinkles, which is why we adore this ice roller. Keep it cold and let it do the work, and you roll it on your skin.

See it on Amazon

Soothe Yourself With This Essential Oil Diffuser

Amazon

Essential oils like lavender have been proven to help regulate your nervous system and calm your emotions. With this essential oil diffuser, your entire home can smell like a garden of relaxation.

See it on Amazon

Roll Your Skin to Improve Circulation

Amazon

Similar to the ice roller, this jade roller and gua sha set also uses the same technique to roll onto your skin. This set is designed to be room temperature and roll on your skin to improve wrinkles, puffiness, and redness.

See it on Amazon

Get Rid of Blackheads Using a Steamer

Amazon

This facial steamer is the latest technology to help you improve your skin health and reduce or eliminate blackheads. You simply set it up in front of your face and let it blow the steam around you, helping to unclog your pores.

See it on Amazon

Mix up Your Skincare Using This Set

Amazon

A mixing bowl set is a must if you are interested in more natural skincare methods. Many people make their own face and hair masks or buy premade ones and mix them later — with this mixing bowl set, you will be all ready to go.

See it on Amazon

Get a Dream Pedicure With This Foot Soak Set

Amazon

Your feet deserve all the love and care they can get, and you can give them that with this foot soak set. It has a foot soak, foot files, and cuticle removers so that you can have a fantastic pedicure right from home.

See it on Amazon

Use a Body Brush for Skin Renewal

Amazon

Body brushes have taken social media by storm. From ASMR videos to skincare routines, these brushes are pretty versatile. You can use them across your body to help rejuvenate your skin and exfoliate in places you may not have before.

See it on Amazon

This Facial Scrub Is Everything You Need

Amazon

Exfoliating your skin is one of the best ways to keep it happy and healthy, especially if you have extremely oily or dry skin. With this facial scrub you can keep your facial skin bright and happy.

See it on Amazon

Remove Calluses With This Pumice Stone

Amazon

A pumice stone is a great thing to keep in your home to help with foot care. It works to scrub off your dead and excess skin while removing calluses and foot corns as well.

See it on Amazon

Get a Massage Right From Your Couch

Amazon

If you have been dreaming of a hot stone massage but weren't sure how to do one from home, Amazon has a product for that. This hot stone massage kit will solve all your woes, and you can use it from the comfort of your very own couch.

See it on Amazon

Massage Your Face Using This Light Therapy Tool

Amazon

Having a good face and neck massager in your home is never a bad idea because we hold most of our stress and tension in our necks, faces, and shoulders. With this massager, you can release that tension quickly and easily so you can go about your day.

See it on Amazon

Remove Calluses Easily Using a Gel

Amazon

This callus gel is a great way to remove calluses on your feet quickly and easily. All you have to do is soak your foot in warm water and scrub your feet with the gel applied, and it will remove your calluses in minutes.

See it on Amazon

Find Time to Meditate With This Breathing Buddah

Amazon

Meditation is one of the best ways to quiet our minds and take care of our mental health. With this breathing buddah, you can follow guided breathwork meditations easily and efficiently, too. Plus, he's super cute!

See it on Amazon

Release Tension in Your Feet Using a Massager

Amazon

If you work on your feet all day, the last thing you probably want to do when you get home is massage your feet. With this foot massager you can simply place your feet in and let it do all the work.

See it on Amazon

Roll This Massager to Release Tension

Amazon

This rolling massager is a great way to release tension easily. The rolling motion helps push out the lactic acid in your muscles, which releases the tension you've been building up.

See it on Amazon

Moisturize and De-Stress Using a Massage Oil

Amazon

Speaking of massages, sometimes you need to nourish and moisturize your skin before getting one. This massage oil can be rubbed onto your skin before or during your massage to get all that goodness into your skin.

See it on Amazon

Use This Spray in the Shower to Relax

Amazon

If baths aren't your thing and shower steamers aren't speaking to you, try this shower spray. You spray the essential oils in your shower and let the heat steam it up so you can get the most of the oils in your skin.

See it on Amazon

Use This Hydro Spa in Any Bath Tub

Amazon

Taking a bath can be a wonderful way to relax, and if you have a normal tub, you don't get to use the jets the fancy tubs have. With this hydro spa, you can bring the jets to you! Pretty much any tub will allow for the attachment, so you can have jets at home.

See it on Amazon

Keep Your Hands Happy Using a Balm Kit

Amazon

This essential oil balm kit is a great way to take care of your hands and skin. You simply mix your cocktail of skincare up in the gloves provided and slip your hands into them to soak in those essential oils.

See it on Amazon

Cleanse Your Face Using These Scrubs

Amazon

A good facial scrub is always a good idea when you're talking about self-care because it helps exfoliate and cleanse your facial skin. With this facial scrub you can simply pull one pad out and get to work.

See it on Amazon

This Full Body Scrub Will Leave You Refreshed

Amazon

Speaking of scrubs and scrubbing, this salt scrub is for your entire body, and it's one of the best out there. You can scrub your entire body with the salt to release tension, exfoliate your skin, and massage your muscles as well.

See it on Amazon

Take Care of Your Nails With Cuticle Oil

Amazon

One thing that is often overlooked when doing your nails is caring for your cuticles. With this cuticle oil, you can ensure that you are taking care of each nail by simply applying the oil and rubbing it in.

See it on Amazon

Fall Asleep Faster Using a Neck Mask

Amazon

This neck mask is designed to heat the back of your neck and release any muscle tension stored there. When we release our neck tension, we let go of the stress we built up there and are able to sleep easier.

See it on Amazon

Make Your Skin Shine With This Mud Mask

Amazon

Using a deep sea mud mask like this one is proven to make your skin shine bright and feel cleaner than it has in a long time. By using a face mask, you reduce redness, remove blackheads, and moisturize your skin.

See it on Amazon