H.E.R. To Star As Belle In ABC’s ‘Beauty And The Beast’ 30th Anniversary Special: I Couldn’t Be More Grateful

H.E.R.

H.E.R. To Star As Belle In ABC’s ‘Beauty And The Beast’ 30th Anniversary Special: I Couldn’t Be More Grateful

Musician H.E.R. has been casted as a Disney princess in the new rendition of “Beauty and the Beast.”

On Wednesday (July 20), TV network ABC announced the singer and song-writer will take on the role of Belle in the upcoming live-action/animated “Beauty and the Beast” special celebrating the movie’s 30th anniversary. Gabriella Sarmiento Wilson, professionally known as H.E.R., is set to star as the Disney princess that falls in love with the Beast.

H.E.R.

According to reports, in addition to a screening of the film, ABC will include live never-before-seen musical performances celebrating and paying homage to the beloved story. The performances will reportedly feature brand-new sets and costumes inspired by the classic story. The live-action special will not be shot live, however, songs from the original animated classic will be performed in front of a live audience at Disney Studios.

The 25-year-old R&B singer spoke about the casting and getting the opportunity to take on the iconic Disney role. This marks the first time an Afro Filipina woman will play the role of Belle on screens. H.E.R. said in a statement:

“I can’t believe I get to be a part of the ‘Beauty and the Beast’ legacy. The world will see a Black and Filipino Belle! I have always wanted to be a Disney princess, and I get to work with two wonderful directors Hamish Hamilton and my favorite, Jon M. Chu. It is very surreal and I couldn’t be more grateful.”

H.E.R.

“Beauty and the Beast: A 30th Celebration” is executive produced by Jon M. Chu and directed by Hamish Hamilton. H.E.R. also serves as producer. This year marks 30 years since “Beauty and the Beast” became the first animated film to be nominated for the Oscar for Best Picture. It won two Oscars — one for Best Original Score and another for Best Original Song in 1992.

The two-hour special will be recorded in front of a live audience at Disney Studios and will air on Thursday, December 15 at 8 p.m. ET on ABC. “Beauty and the Beast: A 30th Celebration” will be available to stream the following day on Disney+.