Summary:
- Jen Rudin’s book, “Confessions of a Casting Director,” reveals the casting process for Disney’s first Black princess film, “The Princess and the Frog.”
- Despite high-profile interest, Anika Noni Rose won the role of Tiana after Beyoncé reportedly refused to audition.
- The film, while critically acclaimed, grossed $267 million, less than other Disney animated hits like “Tangled” and “Wreck-It Ralph.”
A new book by former Disney casting director Jen Rudin sheds light on the casting process for Disney’s first Black princess film, “The Princess and the Frog.
The book, titled “Confessions of a Casting Director,” reveals several interesting anecdotes from Rudin’s time at Disney, including celebrity food preferences. For instance, William Shatner requested fresh sushi and Kiefer Sutherland wanted a cigarette and an In-N-Out Burger.
But the most surprising revelation concerns the casting of Tiana, the princess in “The Princess and the Frog.” According to Rudin, the role was highly sought after, with celebrities like Tyra Banks, Jennifer Hudson, and Alicia Keys all expressing interest.
However, unlike the others, Beyoncé reportedly refused to audition for the part. This paved the way for Anika Noni Rose, who ultimately won the role. Rudin highlights Rose’s talent, stating she was “the most qualified” for the role.
While “The Princess and the Frog” was a critical success, its box office performance ($267 million) fell short of other recent Disney animated films like “Tangled” ($592 million) and “Wreck-It Ralph” ($471 million).
Interestingly, Beyoncé later went on to voice a character in another animated film, Queen Tara in “Epic.” However, “Epic” also underperformed at the box office, grossing slightly less than “The Princess and the Frog.”
