H.E.R. Way: Why Belle From ‘Beauty and the Beast’ Was a Dream Role for the Oscar-Winning R&b Crooner
A version of this story about H.E.R. and “Beauty and the Beast” first appeared in the Comedy Series issue of TheWrap’s awards magazine.
Few multi-hyphenates working these days can claim the take-over of industries quite like H.E.R. In just the last four years, the California native with the signature spectacles has racked up five R&b Grammys, an Oscar (for her stirring “Fight for You” from “Judas and the Black Messiah”) and a Children’s and Family Emmy for a tune from Netflix’s “We the People.” And after her spirited turn as the beloved Belle from Disney’s “Beauty and the Beast” in ABC’s 30th anniversary special, the Primetime Emmy might be calling.. And here’s the kicker: She’s only 25.
Also Read:
‘Avatar’ Delay Pushes Disney Film Schedule – and Can Make or Break Bob Iger’s Legacy | Analysis
How did you become involved with...
Few multi-hyphenates working these days can claim the take-over of industries quite like H.E.R. In just the last four years, the California native with the signature spectacles has racked up five R&b Grammys, an Oscar (for her stirring “Fight for You” from “Judas and the Black Messiah”) and a Children’s and Family Emmy for a tune from Netflix’s “We the People.” And after her spirited turn as the beloved Belle from Disney’s “Beauty and the Beast” in ABC’s 30th anniversary special, the Primetime Emmy might be calling.. And here’s the kicker: She’s only 25.
Also Read:
‘Avatar’ Delay Pushes Disney Film Schedule – and Can Make or Break Bob Iger’s Legacy | Analysis
How did you become involved with...
- 6/14/2023
- by Jason Clark
- The Wrap
Some of the biggest names of Broadway (and Hollywood) won’t be receiving those phone calls of congratulations today as this morning’s Tony Awards nominations included more than a few surprising — or, in some cases, not surprising — omissions.
Aaron Sorkin, whose rewritten book for the classic musical Camelot was not beloved by critics, didn’t get any Tony approval today. His revisions were extensive enough to make him eligible in the Best Book of a Musical category, but he is not among the nominees.
As for lead actors and actresses, Oscar Isaac and Rachel Brosnahan, the bold-name stars of The Sign in Sidney Brustein’s Window, were overlooked, as was The Piano Lesson‘s John David Washington and Pictures From Home‘s Nathan Lane. Marcel Spears, the star of the acclaimed Fat Ham, was not nominated, nor was Olivier Award winner Hiran Abeysekera (Life of Pi). Jefferson Mays, so...
Aaron Sorkin, whose rewritten book for the classic musical Camelot was not beloved by critics, didn’t get any Tony approval today. His revisions were extensive enough to make him eligible in the Best Book of a Musical category, but he is not among the nominees.
As for lead actors and actresses, Oscar Isaac and Rachel Brosnahan, the bold-name stars of The Sign in Sidney Brustein’s Window, were overlooked, as was The Piano Lesson‘s John David Washington and Pictures From Home‘s Nathan Lane. Marcel Spears, the star of the acclaimed Fat Ham, was not nominated, nor was Olivier Award winner Hiran Abeysekera (Life of Pi). Jefferson Mays, so...
- 5/2/2023
- by Greg Evans
- Deadline Film + TV
Exclusive: Grammy and three-time Tony Award nominee, Joshua Henry has signed with Liebman Entertainment for management.
Henry most recently starred as Gaston in ABC’s Beauty And The Beast: A 30th Celebration special and in Lin Manuel Miranda’s feature Tick, Tick….Boom! alongside Andrew Garfield.
He appeared in Steven Knight’s Apple drama series See. He can also be seen in a starring role in the action pic American Renegades for Luc Besson/EuropaCorp opposite Jk Simmons and Sullivan Stapleton.
On the stage, Henry most recently starred in the Grammy-winning, Broadway revival of Into the Woods alongside Phillipa Soo and also was in the cast of Waitress as the charming Dr. Pomatter. He made his Tony nominated Broadway run as Billy Bigelow in a revival of Carousel for producer Scott Rudin and director Jack O’Brien. He also portrayed Aaron Burr in Hamilton, in Chicago and on the first U.
Henry most recently starred as Gaston in ABC’s Beauty And The Beast: A 30th Celebration special and in Lin Manuel Miranda’s feature Tick, Tick….Boom! alongside Andrew Garfield.
He appeared in Steven Knight’s Apple drama series See. He can also be seen in a starring role in the action pic American Renegades for Luc Besson/EuropaCorp opposite Jk Simmons and Sullivan Stapleton.
On the stage, Henry most recently starred in the Grammy-winning, Broadway revival of Into the Woods alongside Phillipa Soo and also was in the cast of Waitress as the charming Dr. Pomatter. He made his Tony nominated Broadway run as Billy Bigelow in a revival of Carousel for producer Scott Rudin and director Jack O’Brien. He also portrayed Aaron Burr in Hamilton, in Chicago and on the first U.
- 4/19/2023
- by Denise Petski
- Deadline Film + TV
Pictured: Casting directors Katja Zarolinski and Geoff Josselson of Jz Casting.
This article first appeared as part of Jenelle Riley’s Acting Up newsletter – to subscribe for early content and weekly updates on all things acting, visit the Acting Up signup page.
Casting director Geoff Josselson just checked off a major bucket list item. When he was asked what show he dreamed of casting, he would say “Into the Woods.” And just last year, working with Telsey Casting, Josselson was part of the team that assembled the heralded Broadway revival starring Sara Bareilles, Brian D’Arcy James and Joshua Henry. Josselson is on a bit of a Stephen Sondheim spree — with Telsey he also helped cast the new production of “Sweeney Todd,” starring Josh Groban and Annaleigh Ashford. And he and his partner at Jz Casting, Katja Zarolinski, just collaborated for the first time with the Pasadena Playhouse to cast “A Little Night Music,...
This article first appeared as part of Jenelle Riley’s Acting Up newsletter – to subscribe for early content and weekly updates on all things acting, visit the Acting Up signup page.
Casting director Geoff Josselson just checked off a major bucket list item. When he was asked what show he dreamed of casting, he would say “Into the Woods.” And just last year, working with Telsey Casting, Josselson was part of the team that assembled the heralded Broadway revival starring Sara Bareilles, Brian D’Arcy James and Joshua Henry. Josselson is on a bit of a Stephen Sondheim spree — with Telsey he also helped cast the new production of “Sweeney Todd,” starring Josh Groban and Annaleigh Ashford. And he and his partner at Jz Casting, Katja Zarolinski, just collaborated for the first time with the Pasadena Playhouse to cast “A Little Night Music,...
- 3/24/2023
- by Jenelle Riley
- Variety Film + TV
In the lead-up to Tony nominations being announced on May 2, Sam Eckmann and I are predicting 10 of the Musical categories, where new breakout shows like “Kimberly Akimbo” and “Some Like it Hot” and revivals of “Sweeney Todd” and “Into the Woods” will compete for the highest honors of the New York theatre community. Nominations will be announced on May 2 and winners will be revealed on June 11. Watch the full video slugfest above.
At the outset, I declare that I think “Kimberly Akimbo” will have “a sensational Tony night.” The new show by Jeanine Tesori and David Lindsay-Abaire leads both of our predictions for the Best Musical prize, but we agree that “Some Like it Hot” will be a strong challenger. Sam describes it as “a ‘Hello Dolly!’ for the modern times,” noting how it’s both “super funny but also very poignant.”
As for Revival, Sam deems this contest “a...
At the outset, I declare that I think “Kimberly Akimbo” will have “a sensational Tony night.” The new show by Jeanine Tesori and David Lindsay-Abaire leads both of our predictions for the Best Musical prize, but we agree that “Some Like it Hot” will be a strong challenger. Sam describes it as “a ‘Hello Dolly!’ for the modern times,” noting how it’s both “super funny but also very poignant.”
As for Revival, Sam deems this contest “a...
- 3/22/2023
- by David Buchanan
- Gold Derby
At the 65th Annual Grammy Awards on Feb. 5, the Broadway revival production of Into the Woods won the award for Best Musical Theater Album. In the virtual media center at the 2023 Grammy Awards, Showbiz Cheat Sheet interviewed music director Rob Berman, producer Sean Patrick Flahaven, and actor Brian d’Arcy James about the making of the Into the Woods (2022 Broadway Cast Recording) album.
Rob Berman, Sean Patrick Flahaven, and Brian d’Arcy James | Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for The Recording Academy What making the ‘Into the Woods’ cast album was like
In July 2022, the second Broadway revival of Into the Woods opened, and the show closed on Jan. 8, 2023. In September 2022, an album featuring the revival cast was released.
At the 2023 Grammy Awards, Into the Woods won Best Musical Theater Album. Following the show’s win, Berman, Flahaven, and James visited the press room to speak to reporters. From the virtual media center,...
Rob Berman, Sean Patrick Flahaven, and Brian d’Arcy James | Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for The Recording Academy What making the ‘Into the Woods’ cast album was like
In July 2022, the second Broadway revival of Into the Woods opened, and the show closed on Jan. 8, 2023. In September 2022, an album featuring the revival cast was released.
At the 2023 Grammy Awards, Into the Woods won Best Musical Theater Album. Following the show’s win, Berman, Flahaven, and James visited the press room to speak to reporters. From the virtual media center,...
- 2/9/2023
- by Eryn Murphy
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
The Tony Awards Administration Committee met for the first time during the 2022-2023 Broadway season on January 31 to discuss eligibility of 20 productions for the 76th Annual Tony Awards in 2023. The productions discussed were: “The Kite Runner,” “Into the Woods,” “Leopoldstadt,” “Cost of Living,” “1776,” “Death of a Salesman,” “The Piano Lesson,” “Topdog/Underdog,” “Walking With Ghosts,” “Almost Famous,” “Kimberly Akimbo,” “Mike Birbiglia: The Old Man and The Pool,” “& Juliet,” “A Christmas Carol,” “Kpop,” “Ain’t No Mo’,” “A Beautiful Noise: The Neil Diamond Musical,” “Ohio State Murders,” “Some Like it Hot,” and “The Collaboration.”
See 2023 Tony Awards: Get your MetroCard ready, new venue is 6 miles from Broadway
The following determinations were made:
Gavin Creel, Joshua Henry and Phillipa Soo will be considered eligible in the Featured Actor/Actress in a Musical categories for their respective performances in “Into the Woods.”
Amir Arison will be considered eligible in the Lead Actor...
See 2023 Tony Awards: Get your MetroCard ready, new venue is 6 miles from Broadway
The following determinations were made:
Gavin Creel, Joshua Henry and Phillipa Soo will be considered eligible in the Featured Actor/Actress in a Musical categories for their respective performances in “Into the Woods.”
Amir Arison will be considered eligible in the Lead Actor...
- 2/1/2023
- by Sam Eckmann
- Gold Derby
The Tony Awards Administration Committee has announced its first round of eligibility rulings for this Broadway season, determining some of the trickier potential nominees and their respective categories.
Both co-stars of The Collaboration – Paul Bettany and Jeremy Pope – will be considered eligible in the Best Performance by an Actor in a Leading Role in a Play, rather than split up into leading and featured slots. Ohio State Murders, written by Adrienne Kennedy in 1991 and performed regionally but never on Broadway until this season, will be considered a revival in keeping with similar rulings in recent years about Broadway debuts of older shows such as The Boys in The Band.
Perhaps among the more surprising rulings is for Sharon D Clarke, who played Linda Loman opposite Wendell Pierce’s Willy Loman in Miranda Cromwell’s Death of a Salesman revival. Clarke will be eligible as a Featured Actress rather than Leading.
Both co-stars of The Collaboration – Paul Bettany and Jeremy Pope – will be considered eligible in the Best Performance by an Actor in a Leading Role in a Play, rather than split up into leading and featured slots. Ohio State Murders, written by Adrienne Kennedy in 1991 and performed regionally but never on Broadway until this season, will be considered a revival in keeping with similar rulings in recent years about Broadway debuts of older shows such as The Boys in The Band.
Perhaps among the more surprising rulings is for Sharon D Clarke, who played Linda Loman opposite Wendell Pierce’s Willy Loman in Miranda Cromwell’s Death of a Salesman revival. Clarke will be eligible as a Featured Actress rather than Leading.
- 2/1/2023
- by Greg Evans
- Deadline Film + TV
Netflix fans have pushed a new recruit into the most-streamed programming charts for the past week. The Noah Centineo-led series “The Recruit,” following a rookie CIA agent in an international political drama, debuted its first two episodes atop the streaming charts. The series joined Netflix’s “Wednesday” and “Harry & Meghan,” both of which remained on the charts in this week’s edition of Samba TV’s Weekly Wrap report.
The Wrap report provides an exclusive first look at the most-watched movies and individual TV programs from the past week across both linear television and streaming. Viewership insights come from data collected from a panel of more than 3 million households drawn from over 25 million connected TVs balanced to the U.S. Census. For the second consecutive week, Netflix dominated the streaming charts, sweeping each of the top 10 placements.
Also Read:
Netflix’s ‘Harry & Meghan’ Dethrones ‘Wednesday’ for Top Streaming...
The Wrap report provides an exclusive first look at the most-watched movies and individual TV programs from the past week across both linear television and streaming. Viewership insights come from data collected from a panel of more than 3 million households drawn from over 25 million connected TVs balanced to the U.S. Census. For the second consecutive week, Netflix dominated the streaming charts, sweeping each of the top 10 placements.
Also Read:
Netflix’s ‘Harry & Meghan’ Dethrones ‘Wednesday’ for Top Streaming...
- 12/26/2022
- by Dallas Lawrence
- The Wrap
The 30th anniversary of the Disney animated feature “Beauty and the Beast", is showcased in the new two-hour animated/live-action special "Beauty and the Beast: A 30th Celebration", directed by Hamish Hamilton, now streaming on Disney+:
H.E.R. and Josh Groban lead a cast including Rita Moreno as the narrator, Joshua Henry as 'Gaston', David Alan Grier as 'Cogsworth', Rizwan Manji as 'LeFou', Jon Jon Briones as 'Maurice', Leo Abelo Perry as 'Chip' and Shania Twain as 'Mrs. Potts'.
Click the images to enlarge...
H.E.R. and Josh Groban lead a cast including Rita Moreno as the narrator, Joshua Henry as 'Gaston', David Alan Grier as 'Cogsworth', Rizwan Manji as 'LeFou', Jon Jon Briones as 'Maurice', Leo Abelo Perry as 'Chip' and Shania Twain as 'Mrs. Potts'.
Click the images to enlarge...
- 12/17/2022
- by Unknown
- SneakPeek
ABC’s “Beauty and the Beast: A 30th Celebration” — which stars the Grammy and Oscar-winning musician H.E.R. as Belle — has transported the network to a broadcast ratings win on Thursday night, per live plus same-day Nielsen figures.
The anniversary special captivated with 0.79 in the 18-49 demographic, averaging 4.3 million total viewers overall. Airing on Thursday at 8 p.m. Et with next-day viewing on Disney+ and Hulu, the show led the network to 0.66 in the demo and an average viewership of 3.5 million.
Presented by the anthology series The Wonderful World of Disney, the two-hour reimagining also starred Martin Short (“Lumière”), Josh Groban (“Beast”), Joshua Henry (“Gaston”), David Alan Grier (“Cogsworth”), Shania Twain (“Mrs. Potts”), Rizwan Manji (“LeFou”), Jon Jon Briones (Belle’s father “Maurice”) and Leo Abelo Perry (Mrs. Potts’ son “Chip”), along with narrator Rita Moreno. Jon M. Chu executive produced the hybrid animated/live-action special and Hamish Hamilton served as director,...
The anniversary special captivated with 0.79 in the 18-49 demographic, averaging 4.3 million total viewers overall. Airing on Thursday at 8 p.m. Et with next-day viewing on Disney+ and Hulu, the show led the network to 0.66 in the demo and an average viewership of 3.5 million.
Presented by the anthology series The Wonderful World of Disney, the two-hour reimagining also starred Martin Short (“Lumière”), Josh Groban (“Beast”), Joshua Henry (“Gaston”), David Alan Grier (“Cogsworth”), Shania Twain (“Mrs. Potts”), Rizwan Manji (“LeFou”), Jon Jon Briones (Belle’s father “Maurice”) and Leo Abelo Perry (Mrs. Potts’ son “Chip”), along with narrator Rita Moreno. Jon M. Chu executive produced the hybrid animated/live-action special and Hamish Hamilton served as director,...
- 12/17/2022
- by Natalie Oganesyan
- The Wrap
During ABC’s Beauty and the Beast – A 30th Celebration, a part-live action, part-animated anniversary celebration of the classic film, H.E.R. was the belle of the ball, literally. The singer starred in the special as Belle alongside Josh Groban, who took up the mantle as the gentle Beast.
The grand performance of “Beauty and the Beast” began with the charm of any princess adaptation, H.E.R. descending down a flight of candle-lit stairs into the ballroom arm in arm with Groban while her golden yellow dress cascaded around her.
The grand performance of “Beauty and the Beast” began with the charm of any princess adaptation, H.E.R. descending down a flight of candle-lit stairs into the ballroom arm in arm with Groban while her golden yellow dress cascaded around her.
- 12/16/2022
- by Larisha Paul
- Rollingstone.com
In honor of Disney’s beloved 1991 animated film “Beauty and the Beast,” ABC and Disney is mounting the live-action “Beauty and the Beast: A 30th Celebration,” from “In the Heights” director Jon M. Chu.
Here’s all you need to know to watch the two-hour live-action and animated special (it’s a little bit of both!), featuring Oscar, Grammy and Emmy winner singer/songwriter H.E.R. as heroine Belle and singer Josh Groban as the Beast she grows to love.
What time does “Beauty and the Beast: A 30th Celebration” start?
It airs Thursday, Dec. 15, at 8pm Et/Pt and 7 Central on ABC.
Also Read:
See H.E.R. as Belle in First Look at ABC’s ‘Beauty and the Beast’ Special (Exclusive Photos) Is the “Beauty and the Beast” live special streaming?
Yes, but not immediately. It will be available to stream on Friday, Dec. 16 on Disney+ and Hulu.
Who...
Here’s all you need to know to watch the two-hour live-action and animated special (it’s a little bit of both!), featuring Oscar, Grammy and Emmy winner singer/songwriter H.E.R. as heroine Belle and singer Josh Groban as the Beast she grows to love.
What time does “Beauty and the Beast: A 30th Celebration” start?
It airs Thursday, Dec. 15, at 8pm Et/Pt and 7 Central on ABC.
Also Read:
See H.E.R. as Belle in First Look at ABC’s ‘Beauty and the Beast’ Special (Exclusive Photos) Is the “Beauty and the Beast” live special streaming?
Yes, but not immediately. It will be available to stream on Friday, Dec. 16 on Disney+ and Hulu.
Who...
- 12/16/2022
- by Sharon Knolle
- The Wrap
If you purchase an independently reviewed product or service through a link on our website, Rolling Stone may receive an affiliate commission.
It’s been 30 years since Disney shared its love story of a tale as old as time, and now, the Mouse House is celebrating Beauty and the Beast with a brand new TV special.
Beauty and the Beast: A 30th Celebration airs tonight, Thursday, December 15 on ABC with a star-studded cast that includes Grammy and Oscar-winner H.E.R. as Belle, Josh Groban as the Beast, Martin Short as Lumière and Shania Twain as Mrs.
It’s been 30 years since Disney shared its love story of a tale as old as time, and now, the Mouse House is celebrating Beauty and the Beast with a brand new TV special.
Beauty and the Beast: A 30th Celebration airs tonight, Thursday, December 15 on ABC with a star-studded cast that includes Grammy and Oscar-winner H.E.R. as Belle, Josh Groban as the Beast, Martin Short as Lumière and Shania Twain as Mrs.
- 12/15/2022
- by Tim Chan
- Rollingstone.com
This past summer, Disney and ABC announced that they would be celebrating the beloved animated film "Beauty and the Beast" with a TV special produced by "Crazy Rich Asians," "In the Heights," and "Wicked" filmmaker Jon M. Chu and directed by the 2012 London Olympic Games opening ceremony director Hamish Hamilton. Rather than commemorate the ground-breaking feature's 30th anniversary (which was last year), the two-hour hybrid animated/live-action special will celebrate the anniversary of the movie's Academy Award nomination for Best Picture. Regardless of the reason, the Disney renaissance favorite is definitely worth celebrating.
For the live-action portion of the event, Emmy, Grammy, and Tony-nominated performer Josh Groban will step into the role of the Beast alongside R&b artist H.E.R. as Belle. Rounding out the cast will be Rita Moreno as the narrator, Joshua Henry as Gaston, Shania Twain as Mrs. Potts, Martin Short as Lumiere, David Allen Grier as Cogsworth,...
For the live-action portion of the event, Emmy, Grammy, and Tony-nominated performer Josh Groban will step into the role of the Beast alongside R&b artist H.E.R. as Belle. Rounding out the cast will be Rita Moreno as the narrator, Joshua Henry as Gaston, Shania Twain as Mrs. Potts, Martin Short as Lumiere, David Allen Grier as Cogsworth,...
- 12/15/2022
- by Ben F. Silverio
- Slash Film
Jon M. Chu, who directed “In the Heights” and is currently working on a two-part “Wicked” adaptation for Universal, is bringing his special sauce to another beloved musical property: Disney’s “Beauty and the Beast.”
“Beauty and the Beast: A 30th Anniversary,” combines original footage from the animated masterpiece (the first animated feature ever to be nominated for Best Picture) with new live-action performances and Chu, as producer, as assembled an all-star line-up. H.E.R. and Josh Groban star as Belle and the Beast, with Rita Moreno as the narrator, Joshua Henry as Gaston, Martin Short as Lumière, David Alan Grier as Cogsworth, Rizwan Manji as LeFou, Jon Jon Briones as Maurice, Leo Abelo Perry as Chip and Shania Twain as Mrs. Potts.
But what is this 30th anniversary celebration all about? And why was Chu so compelled to remake “Beauty and the Beast” yet again? Read on to find out.
“Beauty and the Beast: A 30th Anniversary,” combines original footage from the animated masterpiece (the first animated feature ever to be nominated for Best Picture) with new live-action performances and Chu, as producer, as assembled an all-star line-up. H.E.R. and Josh Groban star as Belle and the Beast, with Rita Moreno as the narrator, Joshua Henry as Gaston, Martin Short as Lumière, David Alan Grier as Cogsworth, Rizwan Manji as LeFou, Jon Jon Briones as Maurice, Leo Abelo Perry as Chip and Shania Twain as Mrs. Potts.
But what is this 30th anniversary celebration all about? And why was Chu so compelled to remake “Beauty and the Beast” yet again? Read on to find out.
- 12/14/2022
- by Drew Taylor
- The Wrap
There may be something there that definitely wasn’t there before in Beauty and the Beast: A 30th Celebration. The original Belle and Gaston, Paige O’Hara, and Richard White, as well as legendary Disney composer Alan Menken, will make special cameos in ABC‘s live-action Beauty and the Beast TV musical on December 15. Blending live-action with animation, the Beauty and the Beast 30th anniversary special airs Thursday, December 15 at 8/7c on ABC. Menken, O’Hara, and White will appear in the opening number, “Belle,” as townspeople in Belle’s “quiet” French village. Grammy-winner H.E.R. plays the Disney princess, with Broadway star Joshua Henry playing Gaston in this iteration. O’Hara will play the bookshop owner who helps keep Belle’s love of reading alive, and White will play the baker who dishes out the memorable line, “Marie! The baguettes! Hurry up!” Menken, meanwhile, will appear to play the piano in one of the songs.
- 12/13/2022
- TV Insider
ABC celebrates the 30th anniversary of “Beauty and The Beast” with a hybrid broadcast special.
The two-hour special, premiering Thursday, includes live never-before-seen musical performances and features brand-new sets inspired by the classic story. Costume designer Marina Toybina was tasked with creating original outfits that pay homage to the 1992 animated feature and heritage while having a modern touch. “90 were made from scratch and we’re looking at close to 400 costumes,” Toybina says of her designs.
Award-winning singer and songwriter H.E.R. will play Belle, Josh Groban is playing The Beast, Joshua Henry will play Gaston and Rita Moreno is the narrator.
Toybina revealed the famous Belle gown was inspired by Joan of Arc. “I decided to develop an armor-like bodice that goes in line with ‘Joan of Arc,’ Toybina teased as she breaks down her designs.
Belle’s Village Outfit
For Belle’s opening costume, Toybina created a look inspired by...
The two-hour special, premiering Thursday, includes live never-before-seen musical performances and features brand-new sets inspired by the classic story. Costume designer Marina Toybina was tasked with creating original outfits that pay homage to the 1992 animated feature and heritage while having a modern touch. “90 were made from scratch and we’re looking at close to 400 costumes,” Toybina says of her designs.
Award-winning singer and songwriter H.E.R. will play Belle, Josh Groban is playing The Beast, Joshua Henry will play Gaston and Rita Moreno is the narrator.
Toybina revealed the famous Belle gown was inspired by Joan of Arc. “I decided to develop an armor-like bodice that goes in line with ‘Joan of Arc,’ Toybina teased as she breaks down her designs.
Belle’s Village Outfit
For Belle’s opening costume, Toybina created a look inspired by...
- 12/13/2022
- by Jazz Tangcay
- Variety Film + TV
The 30th anniversary of the Disney animated feature “Beauty and the Beast", is showcased in the new two-hour animated/live-action special "Beauty and the Beast: A 30th Celebration", directed by Hamish Hamilton, airing December 15, 2022 on Disney+:
H.E.R. and Josh Groban lead a cast including Rita Moreno as the narrator, Joshua Henry as 'Gaston', David Alan Grier as 'Cogsworth', Rizwan Manji as 'LeFou', Jon Jon Briones as 'Maurice', Leo Abelo Perry as 'Chip' and Shania Twain as 'Mrs. Potts'.
Click the images to enlarge...
H.E.R. and Josh Groban lead a cast including Rita Moreno as the narrator, Joshua Henry as 'Gaston', David Alan Grier as 'Cogsworth', Rizwan Manji as 'LeFou', Jon Jon Briones as 'Maurice', Leo Abelo Perry as 'Chip' and Shania Twain as 'Mrs. Potts'.
Click the images to enlarge...
- 12/9/2022
- by Unknown
- SneakPeek
Just as a magical transformation takes place front-and-center in “Beauty and the Beast,” so do the costumes of ABC’s TV special of the classic animated film come to life, in these first exclusive sketches and character depictions that TheWrap can reveal. In the photos, which you can view below, see stars H.E.R. (who plays Belle) and Martin Short (who portrays Lumière) embody their sketched designs, as created by Marina Toybina.
Presented by the anthology series The Wonderful World of Disney, the two-hour reimagining of the beloved story of “Beauty and the Beast” will air Thursday, Dec. 15 at 8 p.m. Et on ABC, with next-day viewing on Disney+. In addition to Grammy and Oscar-winning H.E.R. and Short, the special stars Josh Groban (“Beast”), Joshua Henry (“Gaston”), David Alan Grier (“Cogsworth”), Shania Twain (“Mrs. Potts”), Rizwan Manji (“LeFou”), Jon Jon Briones (Belle’s father “Maurice”) and Leo Abelo Perry (Mrs.
Presented by the anthology series The Wonderful World of Disney, the two-hour reimagining of the beloved story of “Beauty and the Beast” will air Thursday, Dec. 15 at 8 p.m. Et on ABC, with next-day viewing on Disney+. In addition to Grammy and Oscar-winning H.E.R. and Short, the special stars Josh Groban (“Beast”), Joshua Henry (“Gaston”), David Alan Grier (“Cogsworth”), Shania Twain (“Mrs. Potts”), Rizwan Manji (“LeFou”), Jon Jon Briones (Belle’s father “Maurice”) and Leo Abelo Perry (Mrs.
- 12/6/2022
- by Natalie Oganesyan
- The Wrap
The 30th anniversary of the Disney animated feature “Beauty and the Beast", is showcased in the new two-hour animated/live-action special "Beauty and the Beast: A 30th Celebration", directed by Hamish Hamilton, airing December 15, 2022 on Disney+:
H.E.R. and Josh Groban lead a cast including Rita Moreno as the narrator, Joshua Henry as 'Gaston', David Alan Grier as 'Cogsworth', Rizwan Manji as 'LeFou', Jon Jon Briones as 'Maurice', Leo Abelo Perry as 'Chip' and Shania Twain as 'Mrs. Potts'.
Click the images to enlarge...
H.E.R. and Josh Groban lead a cast including Rita Moreno as the narrator, Joshua Henry as 'Gaston', David Alan Grier as 'Cogsworth', Rizwan Manji as 'LeFou', Jon Jon Briones as 'Maurice', Leo Abelo Perry as 'Chip' and Shania Twain as 'Mrs. Potts'.
Click the images to enlarge...
- 11/29/2022
- by Unknown
- SneakPeek
We know Beauty and the Beast‘s Belle can sing… but have you seen her pick up a guitar before?
ABC has released a pair of new promos for the upcoming special Beauty and the Beast: A 30th Celebration (airing Thursday, Dec. 15 at 8/7c), giving us a sneak peek at Grammy winner H.E.R. as Belle and chart-topping singer Josh Groban as the Beast. The special is billed as a “reimagining” of the classic Disney animated film, with a blend of animation and live-action performances to be taped in front of a live audience.
More from TVLinePink Performs Olivia Newton-John...
ABC has released a pair of new promos for the upcoming special Beauty and the Beast: A 30th Celebration (airing Thursday, Dec. 15 at 8/7c), giving us a sneak peek at Grammy winner H.E.R. as Belle and chart-topping singer Josh Groban as the Beast. The special is billed as a “reimagining” of the classic Disney animated film, with a blend of animation and live-action performances to be taped in front of a live audience.
More from TVLinePink Performs Olivia Newton-John...
- 11/18/2022
- by Dave Nemetz
- TVLine.com
The 30th anniversary of the Disney animated feature |"Beauty and the Beast", is showcased in the new two-hour animated/live-action special "Beauty and the Beast: A 30th Celebration", directed by Hamish Hamilton, airing December 15, 2022 on Disney+:
H.E.R. and Josh Groban lead a cast including Rita Moreno as the narrator, Joshua Henry as 'Gaston', David Alan Grier as 'Cogsworth', Rizwan Manji as 'LeFou', Jon Jon Briones as 'Maurice', Leo Abelo Perry as 'Chip' and Shania Twain as 'Mrs. Potts'.
Click the images to enlarge...
H.E.R. and Josh Groban lead a cast including Rita Moreno as the narrator, Joshua Henry as 'Gaston', David Alan Grier as 'Cogsworth', Rizwan Manji as 'LeFou', Jon Jon Briones as 'Maurice', Leo Abelo Perry as 'Chip' and Shania Twain as 'Mrs. Potts'.
Click the images to enlarge...
- 11/11/2022
- by Unknown
- SneakPeek
Prime Video has released the official teaser trailer for the upcoming dark comedy-drama series “Mammals,” starring James Corden and Sally Hawkins. All six episodes will drop Nov. 11.
Directed by Stephanie Laing and written by Jez Butterworth, “Mammals” follows Jamie (Corden), a chef who discovers shocking secrets about his pregnant wife, Amandine (Melia Kreiling). Jamie searches for answers with the help of his brother-in-law Jeff (Colin Morgan), but stumbles upon cracks in Jeff’s marriage to Jamie’s sister Lue (Hawkins) along the way.
The series is produced by Street Hassle, in association with Vertigo Films and Fulwell 73. Watch the teaser below.
Also in today’s TV news:
Trailers
Apple TV+ has released the official trailer of the original preschool series “Slumberkins,” premiering globally on the streamer Nov. 4.
From The Jim Henson Company, the series follows the adventures of Bigfoot, Unicorn, Sloth, Yak and Fox as they empower the emotional...
Directed by Stephanie Laing and written by Jez Butterworth, “Mammals” follows Jamie (Corden), a chef who discovers shocking secrets about his pregnant wife, Amandine (Melia Kreiling). Jamie searches for answers with the help of his brother-in-law Jeff (Colin Morgan), but stumbles upon cracks in Jeff’s marriage to Jamie’s sister Lue (Hawkins) along the way.
The series is produced by Street Hassle, in association with Vertigo Films and Fulwell 73. Watch the teaser below.
Also in today’s TV news:
Trailers
Apple TV+ has released the official trailer of the original preschool series “Slumberkins,” premiering globally on the streamer Nov. 4.
From The Jim Henson Company, the series follows the adventures of Bigfoot, Unicorn, Sloth, Yak and Fox as they empower the emotional...
- 10/17/2022
- by Katie Reul, Michaela Zee and EJ Panaligan
- Variety Film + TV
Here is a wrap-up of all the news you need to know from Monday, October 17, 2022.
Fans of FBI will be getting a special Sunday episode on November 6.
TV Line reports that a fresh episode of FBI Season 5 will air at 8:30 pm Et / 8 pm Pt on the night.
FBI and the spinoffs FBI: International and FBI: Most Wanted will all be preempted on Tuesday, Nov. 8 by Election Night news coverage.
The original series has an extra episode in its inventory after airing the delayed Season 4 final earlier this month.
ABC's Beauty and the Beast anniversary special has added six people to its cast.
Martin Short will play the Lumiere, Shania Twain will play Mrs. Potts, David Alan Grier will play clock Cogsworth, Rizwan Manji will play Gaston’s sidekick LeFou, Jon Jon Briones will star as Belle’s father Maurice and Leo Abelo Perry as Mrs. Potts’ son Chip.
The...
Fans of FBI will be getting a special Sunday episode on November 6.
TV Line reports that a fresh episode of FBI Season 5 will air at 8:30 pm Et / 8 pm Pt on the night.
FBI and the spinoffs FBI: International and FBI: Most Wanted will all be preempted on Tuesday, Nov. 8 by Election Night news coverage.
The original series has an extra episode in its inventory after airing the delayed Season 4 final earlier this month.
ABC's Beauty and the Beast anniversary special has added six people to its cast.
Martin Short will play the Lumiere, Shania Twain will play Mrs. Potts, David Alan Grier will play clock Cogsworth, Rizwan Manji will play Gaston’s sidekick LeFou, Jon Jon Briones will star as Belle’s father Maurice and Leo Abelo Perry as Mrs. Potts’ son Chip.
The...
- 10/17/2022
- by Paul Dailly
- TVfanatic
ABC announces new ‘Beauty and the Beast: A 30th Celebration’ cast
Five-time Grammy Award winner Shania Twain has signed on to play Mrs. Potts in ABC’s Beauty and the Beast: A 30th Celebration, a live-action and animated blended special. The reimagining of the classic story has also just added Only Murders in the Building‘s Martin Short as Lumière and Tony Award winner David Alan Grier (A Soldier’s Play) as Cogsworth.
Rizwan Manji (Schitt’s Creek) has joined the cast as Gaston’s sidekick, LeFou. Jon Jon Briones (The Last Voyage of the Demeter) will take on the role of Maurice, Belle’s father. Leo Abelo Perry (The Big Leap) is set to play Mrs. Potts’ son, Chip.
The just-announced cast join previously announced stars Oscar winner H.E.R. (“Fight For You” from Judas and the Black Messiah) as Belle, Grammy nominee Josh Groban as the Beast, and Tony Award nominee Joshua Henry as Gaston.
Five-time Grammy Award winner Shania Twain has signed on to play Mrs. Potts in ABC’s Beauty and the Beast: A 30th Celebration, a live-action and animated blended special. The reimagining of the classic story has also just added Only Murders in the Building‘s Martin Short as Lumière and Tony Award winner David Alan Grier (A Soldier’s Play) as Cogsworth.
Rizwan Manji (Schitt’s Creek) has joined the cast as Gaston’s sidekick, LeFou. Jon Jon Briones (The Last Voyage of the Demeter) will take on the role of Maurice, Belle’s father. Leo Abelo Perry (The Big Leap) is set to play Mrs. Potts’ son, Chip.
The just-announced cast join previously announced stars Oscar winner H.E.R. (“Fight For You” from Judas and the Black Messiah) as Belle, Grammy nominee Josh Groban as the Beast, and Tony Award nominee Joshua Henry as Gaston.
- 10/17/2022
- by Rebecca Murray
- Showbiz Junkies
Martin Short and Shania Twain are set to play the world’s most famous candelabra and teapot. The two stars have joined ABC’s upcoming December 15 “Beauty and the Beast” 30th-anniversary special, along with David Alan Grier, Rizwan Manji, Jon Jon Briones, and Leo Abelo Perry.
Short, the Emmy and Tony winner who currently stars in Hulu’s “Only Murders in the Building,” will portray the flirtatious French candelabra Lumière, voiced in the original 1991 Disney film by Jerry Orbach. Five-time Grammy-winning country singer Twain will play the teapot Mrs. Potts, whose original voice actor, Angela Lansbury, died last week. Perry, who made his film debut this year in the Disney+ remake of “Cheaper by the Dozen,” will play Potts’ son Chip. Grier, who won a Tony last year for his performance in “A Soldier’s Play,” will portray the majordomo clock Cogsworth, while Jon Jon Briones will play village inventor Maurice,...
Short, the Emmy and Tony winner who currently stars in Hulu’s “Only Murders in the Building,” will portray the flirtatious French candelabra Lumière, voiced in the original 1991 Disney film by Jerry Orbach. Five-time Grammy-winning country singer Twain will play the teapot Mrs. Potts, whose original voice actor, Angela Lansbury, died last week. Perry, who made his film debut this year in the Disney+ remake of “Cheaper by the Dozen,” will play Potts’ son Chip. Grier, who won a Tony last year for his performance in “A Soldier’s Play,” will portray the majordomo clock Cogsworth, while Jon Jon Briones will play village inventor Maurice,...
- 10/17/2022
- by Wilson Chapman
- Indiewire
ABC’s “Beauty and the Beast: A 30th Celebration” has found its Lumière, Cogsworth and Mrs. Potts in Martin Short (“Only Murders in the Building”), David Alan Grier (“In Living Color”) and country music star Shania Twain, respectively.
Rounding out the ensemble cast are Rizwan Manji (“Schitt’s Creek”) as Gaston’s loyal sidekick, LeFou; Jon Jon Briones (“Ratched”) as Belle’s loving father, Maurice; and Leo Abelo Perry (2022’s “Cheaper by the Dozen”), playing Mrs. Potts’ son Chip.
Presented by the anthology series The Wonderful World of Disney, the two-hour reimagining of the beloved story of “Beauty and the Beast” will be taped in front of a live audience at Disney Studios and will air Thursday, Dec. 15 at 8 p.m. Et on ABC, with next-day viewing on Disney+.
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As previously announced,...
Rounding out the ensemble cast are Rizwan Manji (“Schitt’s Creek”) as Gaston’s loyal sidekick, LeFou; Jon Jon Briones (“Ratched”) as Belle’s loving father, Maurice; and Leo Abelo Perry (2022’s “Cheaper by the Dozen”), playing Mrs. Potts’ son Chip.
Presented by the anthology series The Wonderful World of Disney, the two-hour reimagining of the beloved story of “Beauty and the Beast” will be taped in front of a live audience at Disney Studios and will air Thursday, Dec. 15 at 8 p.m. Et on ABC, with next-day viewing on Disney+.
Also Read:
‘Grey’s Anatomy': Harry Shum Jr. Teases How Blue Will Use Some Secret ‘Intel’ to Be Assigned More Surgeries in Episode 2
As previously announced,...
- 10/17/2022
- by Natalie Oganesyan
- The Wrap
Click here to read the full article.
ABC is rounding out the cast of its live Beauty and the Beast special.
The Dec. 15 special, celebrating the 30th anniversary of the film’s best picture nomination — the first animated feature to earn that honor — has added Martin Short, David Alan Grier, Shania Twain, Rizwan Manji, Jon Jon Briones and Leo Abelo Perry to its cast. They join an ensemble led by Grammy winner H.E.R. as Belle and Josh Groban as the Beast; Joshua Henry also stars, and Rita Moreno will narrate the special.
Only Murders in the Building star Short will play Lumiere. Tony winner Grier (A Solider’s Play, The Patient) will play Cogsworth, while Grammy winner and country music star Twain will play Mrs. Potts and Perry her son, Chip. Manji (Schitt’s Creek) plays Gaston’s (Henry) sidekick, LeFou, and Briones (Ratched) will play Belle’s father, Maurice.
The special,...
ABC is rounding out the cast of its live Beauty and the Beast special.
The Dec. 15 special, celebrating the 30th anniversary of the film’s best picture nomination — the first animated feature to earn that honor — has added Martin Short, David Alan Grier, Shania Twain, Rizwan Manji, Jon Jon Briones and Leo Abelo Perry to its cast. They join an ensemble led by Grammy winner H.E.R. as Belle and Josh Groban as the Beast; Joshua Henry also stars, and Rita Moreno will narrate the special.
Only Murders in the Building star Short will play Lumiere. Tony winner Grier (A Solider’s Play, The Patient) will play Cogsworth, while Grammy winner and country music star Twain will play Mrs. Potts and Perry her son, Chip. Manji (Schitt’s Creek) plays Gaston’s (Henry) sidekick, LeFou, and Briones (Ratched) will play Belle’s father, Maurice.
The special,...
- 10/17/2022
- by Rick Porter
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Two iconic staples of Beauty and the Beast‘s dining room are coming to life at ABC.
Martin Short (Only Murders in the Building) and country music vet Shania Twain are among six cast additions to the network’s upcoming Beauty and the Beast anniversary special, TVLine has learned.
More from TVLineABC's Beauty and the Beast Special Casts Josh Groban as the Beast, Plus Rita Moreno and Joshua HenryBeauty and the Beast: H.E.R. to Star as Belle in ABC's Live-Action ProductionGrey's Anatomy: Jesse Williams Sets Next Encore -- Will April Join Jackson?
Short will play the French candlestick Lumière in the special,...
Martin Short (Only Murders in the Building) and country music vet Shania Twain are among six cast additions to the network’s upcoming Beauty and the Beast anniversary special, TVLine has learned.
More from TVLineABC's Beauty and the Beast Special Casts Josh Groban as the Beast, Plus Rita Moreno and Joshua HenryBeauty and the Beast: H.E.R. to Star as Belle in ABC's Live-Action ProductionGrey's Anatomy: Jesse Williams Sets Next Encore -- Will April Join Jackson?
Short will play the French candlestick Lumière in the special,...
- 10/17/2022
- by Rebecca Iannucci
- TVLine.com
Martin Short, Shania Twain and David Alan Grier are confirmed for ABC’s upcoming special Beauty and the Beast: A 30th Anniversary, playing Lumière, Mrs. Potts and Cogsworth, respectively. Rounding out the cast of the two-hour hybrid animated/live-action special are Rizwan Manji, Jon Jon Briones and Leo Abelo Perry.
They join previously announced H.E.R. as Belle, Josh Groban as the Beast, Joshua Henry as Gaston, and Rita Moreno as narrator.
Rizwan Manji, Jon Jon Briones, Leo Abelo Perry
Manji will play Gaston’s loyal sidekick Le Fou, Briones portrays Belle’s loving father, Maurice; and Perry is Mrs. Potts’ son Chip.
The special will include live never-before-seen musical performances, along with new sets and costumes inspired by the classic story. Each performance is created to pay homage while also adding to the iconic story for viewers. Songs from the original animated classic will be performed in front of a live audience at Disney Studios.
They join previously announced H.E.R. as Belle, Josh Groban as the Beast, Joshua Henry as Gaston, and Rita Moreno as narrator.
Rizwan Manji, Jon Jon Briones, Leo Abelo Perry
Manji will play Gaston’s loyal sidekick Le Fou, Briones portrays Belle’s loving father, Maurice; and Perry is Mrs. Potts’ son Chip.
The special will include live never-before-seen musical performances, along with new sets and costumes inspired by the classic story. Each performance is created to pay homage while also adding to the iconic story for viewers. Songs from the original animated classic will be performed in front of a live audience at Disney Studios.
- 10/17/2022
- by Denise Petski
- Deadline Film + TV
Martin Short and Shania Twain are in end talks to join ABC’s Beauty and the Beast special. In a report from Variety, sources say that Short would play Lumière while Twain will take on the role of Mrs. Potts in Beauty and the Beast: A 30th Celebration. Previously announced cast members include Oscar winner H.E.R. as Belle, Grammy winner Josh Groban as Beast, and Joshua Henry as Gaston. Egot legend Rita Moreno will serve as the show’s narrator in the live-action animated hybrid production. (Credit: Everett Collection) The two-hour reimagining is presented by The Wonderful World of Disney and will be taped in front of a live audience at Disney Studios before airing on Thursday, December 15 at 8/7c on ABC (and will stream on Disney+ the next day). Jon M. Chu will executive produce the special, with Hamish Hamilton set to direct. The show will feature never-before-seen musical performances.
- 9/22/2022
- TV Insider
Martin Short and Shania Twain are in final talks to join ABC’s “Beauty and the Beast” special.
Sources tell Variety that Short would play Lumière while Twain will take on the role of Mrs. Potts in “Beauty and the Beast: A 30th Celebration.”
The news comes just days after Variety exclusively reported that David Alan Grier will play the role of Cogsworth in the production. Previously announced cast members include Oscar winner H.E.R. as Belle, Grammy winner Josh Groban as Beast and Joshua Henry as Gaston. Egot legend Rita Moreno will serve as the show’s narrator in the live-action/animated hybrid production.
The Hamish Hamilton-directed special will be filmed live and feature never-before-seen musical performances. Jamal Sims is serving as executive producer and choreographer. Set design is by Julio Himede with costumes by Marina Toybina (“The Masked Singer”).
Jon M. Chu is executive producing the special, which is...
Sources tell Variety that Short would play Lumière while Twain will take on the role of Mrs. Potts in “Beauty and the Beast: A 30th Celebration.”
The news comes just days after Variety exclusively reported that David Alan Grier will play the role of Cogsworth in the production. Previously announced cast members include Oscar winner H.E.R. as Belle, Grammy winner Josh Groban as Beast and Joshua Henry as Gaston. Egot legend Rita Moreno will serve as the show’s narrator in the live-action/animated hybrid production.
The Hamish Hamilton-directed special will be filmed live and feature never-before-seen musical performances. Jamal Sims is serving as executive producer and choreographer. Set design is by Julio Himede with costumes by Marina Toybina (“The Masked Singer”).
Jon M. Chu is executive producing the special, which is...
- 9/22/2022
- by Marc Malkin
- Variety Film + TV
David Alan Grier is joining the cast of ABC’s “Beauty and the Beast: A 30th Celebration.”
The Tony winner will play Cogsworth in the star-studded production, according to sources. Previously announced cast members include Oscar winner H.E.R. as Belle, Josh Groban as Beast and Joshua Henry as Gaston. Rita Moreno will serve as the show’s narrator in the live-action/animated hybrid production.
The special, to be directed by Hamish Hamilton, will be recorded live and feature never-before-seen musical performances. Jamal Sims is serving as executive producer and choreographer. Set design is by Julio Himede with costumes by Marina Toybina (“The Masked Singer”).
Jon M. Chu will executive produce the special. “When the animated movie came out, I watched it multiple times in the first weekend,” Chu said when the project was announced in April. “It showed me the outer limits of what animated artists and storytellers could achieve,...
The Tony winner will play Cogsworth in the star-studded production, according to sources. Previously announced cast members include Oscar winner H.E.R. as Belle, Josh Groban as Beast and Joshua Henry as Gaston. Rita Moreno will serve as the show’s narrator in the live-action/animated hybrid production.
The special, to be directed by Hamish Hamilton, will be recorded live and feature never-before-seen musical performances. Jamal Sims is serving as executive producer and choreographer. Set design is by Julio Himede with costumes by Marina Toybina (“The Masked Singer”).
Jon M. Chu will executive produce the special. “When the animated movie came out, I watched it multiple times in the first weekend,” Chu said when the project was announced in April. “It showed me the outer limits of what animated artists and storytellers could achieve,...
- 9/20/2022
- by Marc Malkin
- Variety Film + TV
ABC plans to honor Disney's "Beauty and the Beast" this holiday season with an epic animation and live action hybrid special, and the project has just found its beast. Emmy, Grammy, and Tony-nominated musician Josh Groban will play the lead role of the Beast in the 30th anniversary special, which boasts a star-studded cast that also includes Rita Moreno, Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter H.E.R. and Broadway actor Joshua Henry.
The special, titled "Beauty and the Beast: A 30th Celebration," sounds like it will follow in the footsteps of the network's 2019 special, "The Little Mermaid Live!" which intercut animated sequences from the original film with new stage performances featuring different actors in familiar roles. This time, however, the production doesn't seem to claim to be live, but will instead be filmed at Disney Studios in front of a live audience, to air in December on ABC with a Disney+ debut a day later.
The special, titled "Beauty and the Beast: A 30th Celebration," sounds like it will follow in the footsteps of the network's 2019 special, "The Little Mermaid Live!" which intercut animated sequences from the original film with new stage performances featuring different actors in familiar roles. This time, however, the production doesn't seem to claim to be live, but will instead be filmed at Disney Studios in front of a live audience, to air in December on ABC with a Disney+ debut a day later.
- 9/11/2022
- by Valerie Ettenhofer
- Slash Film
Josh Groban will play the Beast in the upcoming ABC special Beauty and the Beast: A 30th Celebration. He joins Grammy and Academy Award-winning singer/songwriter H.E.R., who was previously announced as Belle. Additionally, Broadway and Tick Tick… Boom! star Joshua Henry will play Gaston, and the legendary Rita Moreno will serve as the production’s narrator. The casting announcements were made Friday, September 9 during a panel at the D23 expo. It’s wild to think that we were first introduced to Disney’s Beauty and the Beast 30 years ago. But those of us who are old enough to remember being smitten with the original animated film can get excited for this December, when we get to be enchanted all over again when the new live action and animated-blended special premieres. The two-hour reimagining of the original Disney blockbuster will be presented by The Wonderful World of Disney and will...
- 9/10/2022
- TV Insider
Josh Gorban is set as the co-lead opposite H.E.R. in ABC’s animated and live-action blended special, Beauty and the Beast: A 30th Celebration. The announcement was made during today’s panel at D23 Expo 2022.
Groban, who previously recorded a song for the 2017 Beauty and the Beast live-action movie, will play Beast alongside previously announced H.E.R. as Belle. Joshua Henry has been tapped to play antagonist Gaston, while Egot winner Rita Moreno will serve as the night’s narrator.
Presented by The Wonderful World of Disney, the two-hour reimagining of the beloved story of Beauty and the Beast will be taped in front of a live audience at Disney Studios and will air Dec. 15 on ABC and on Disney+ the next day.
Jon M. Chu is set to executive produce the special and Hamish Hamilton set to direct. Beauty and the Beast: A 30th Celebration is produced by...
Groban, who previously recorded a song for the 2017 Beauty and the Beast live-action movie, will play Beast alongside previously announced H.E.R. as Belle. Joshua Henry has been tapped to play antagonist Gaston, while Egot winner Rita Moreno will serve as the night’s narrator.
Presented by The Wonderful World of Disney, the two-hour reimagining of the beloved story of Beauty and the Beast will be taped in front of a live audience at Disney Studios and will air Dec. 15 on ABC and on Disney+ the next day.
Jon M. Chu is set to executive produce the special and Hamish Hamilton set to direct. Beauty and the Beast: A 30th Celebration is produced by...
- 9/10/2022
- by Nellie Andreeva
- Deadline Film + TV
ABC's Beauty and the Beast Special Casts Josh Groban as the Beast, Plus Rita Moreno and Joshua Henry
The hairy half of ABC’s Beauty and the Beast special will have a beautiful singing voice, at least: Josh Groban will play the Beast in the upcoming 30th anniversary celebration, the network announced on Friday.
The chart-topping singer — who also recorded a song for the 2017 Beauty and the Beast live-action film starring Emma Watson — joins H.E.R., who was announced as playing the role of Belle back in July. Beauty and the Beast: A 30th Celebration is billed as a “reimagining” of the classic 1991 animated film, with a blend of animation and live-action performances to be taped in front of a live audience.
The chart-topping singer — who also recorded a song for the 2017 Beauty and the Beast live-action film starring Emma Watson — joins H.E.R., who was announced as playing the role of Belle back in July. Beauty and the Beast: A 30th Celebration is billed as a “reimagining” of the classic 1991 animated film, with a blend of animation and live-action performances to be taped in front of a live audience.
- 9/10/2022
- by Dave Nemetz
- TVLine.com
Josh Groban, Rita Moreno and Broadway star Joshua Henry are joining the cast of the “Beauty and the Beast” 30th anniversary special, Disney revealed Friday at the D23 Expo.
Groban will star as the Beast, Moreno will narrate, and Henry will play the villainous Gaston. They join previously announced singer/songwriter H.E.R. as Belle.
Presented by The Wonderful World of Disney, the two-hour special will be taped in front of a live audience at Disney Studios and will air Thursday, Dec. 15 from 8-10 p.m. Et on ABC and stream on Disney+ the next day.
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Jon M. Chu will executive produce and Hamish Hamilton is set to direct. Additional talent will be announced at a later date.
The Grammy-winning Groban made his Broadway debut in 2016 with a Tony-nominated starring role in “Natasha,...
Groban will star as the Beast, Moreno will narrate, and Henry will play the villainous Gaston. They join previously announced singer/songwriter H.E.R. as Belle.
Presented by The Wonderful World of Disney, the two-hour special will be taped in front of a live audience at Disney Studios and will air Thursday, Dec. 15 from 8-10 p.m. Et on ABC and stream on Disney+ the next day.
Also Read:
Jude Law Plays a Mean Captain Hook in First Look at Disney’s ‘Peter Pan & Wendy’
Jon M. Chu will executive produce and Hamish Hamilton is set to direct. Additional talent will be announced at a later date.
The Grammy-winning Groban made his Broadway debut in 2016 with a Tony-nominated starring role in “Natasha,...
- 9/9/2022
- by Sharon Knolle
- The Wrap
Josh Groban, Joshua Henry and Rita Moreno will star in ABC’s “Beauty and the Beast 30th Anniversary Special,” Variety can exclusively reveal.
Groban, who recorded the original song “Evermore” for the 2017 “Beauty and the Beast” film, will play Beast. Henry, who recently starred on Broadway’s “Into the Woods,” will play Gaston. Moreno will serve as the show’s narrator, guiding viewers along the classically enchanting tale. As previously announced, Grammy winner H.E.R. will play Belle in the live-action/animated hybrid.
The casting news was announced Friday at the D23 Expo’s “Beauty and the Beast: A 30th Celebration” panel, moderated by Variety’s senior artisans editor Jazz Tangcay.
The special will be recorded live and feature never-before-seen musical performances. Jamal Sims is doing double duty as executive producer and choreographer. Sets will be designed by Julio Himede, and “The Masked Singer” costume designer Marina Toybina will recreate Belle’s famous yellow gown,...
Groban, who recorded the original song “Evermore” for the 2017 “Beauty and the Beast” film, will play Beast. Henry, who recently starred on Broadway’s “Into the Woods,” will play Gaston. Moreno will serve as the show’s narrator, guiding viewers along the classically enchanting tale. As previously announced, Grammy winner H.E.R. will play Belle in the live-action/animated hybrid.
The casting news was announced Friday at the D23 Expo’s “Beauty and the Beast: A 30th Celebration” panel, moderated by Variety’s senior artisans editor Jazz Tangcay.
The special will be recorded live and feature never-before-seen musical performances. Jamal Sims is doing double duty as executive producer and choreographer. Sets will be designed by Julio Himede, and “The Masked Singer” costume designer Marina Toybina will recreate Belle’s famous yellow gown,...
- 9/9/2022
- by Jazz Tangcay
- Variety Film + TV
The recently extended Broadway production of Into The Woods has announced its new cast for the additional weeks, with Stephanie J. Block taking over from Sara Bareilles as the Baker’s Wife and Block’s real-life husband Sebastian Arcelus signing on as the Baker (from Brian d’Arcy James) beginning Sept. 6.
Also joining Sept. 6 – the show currently is scheduled to continue at the St. James Theatre through Oct. 16 – are Krysta Rodriguez as Cinderella, Katy Geraghty as Little Red Ridinghood, and Jim Stanek as the Steward. Montego Glover will share the role of The Witch with the current cast member Patina Miller, and Gavin Creel and Joshua Henry extend as the Wolf/Cinderella’s Prince and Rapunzel’s Prince, respectively.
Andy Karl will play the role of the Wolf/Cinderella’s Prince from September 6 through September 15, as Creel fulfills a prior commitment. Creel returns to the production on September 16.
Currently in the...
Also joining Sept. 6 – the show currently is scheduled to continue at the St. James Theatre through Oct. 16 – are Krysta Rodriguez as Cinderella, Katy Geraghty as Little Red Ridinghood, and Jim Stanek as the Steward. Montego Glover will share the role of The Witch with the current cast member Patina Miller, and Gavin Creel and Joshua Henry extend as the Wolf/Cinderella’s Prince and Rapunzel’s Prince, respectively.
Andy Karl will play the role of the Wolf/Cinderella’s Prince from September 6 through September 15, as Creel fulfills a prior commitment. Creel returns to the production on September 16.
Currently in the...
- 8/12/2022
- by Greg Evans
- Deadline Film + TV
As widely expected, the smash revival of Into The Woods will extend its limited engagement at Broadway’s St. James Theatre, producers announced today.
Initially scheduled to close on August 21, the production has been extended for an additional eight weeks, with tickets now on sale through October 16. Additional extensions are possible.
Jordan Roth, President of Jujamcyn Theaters, announced the extension today. The production began life this past spring as a New York City Center Encores! production. The James Lapine-Stephen Sondheim musical is directed by Lear deBessonet,
The production currently stars Sara Bareilles, Brian d’Arcy James , Gavin Creel, Julia Lester, Patina Miller, Phillipa Soo and Joshua Henry, among others, but casting for the extension was not announced.
The extension comes as news of the venue’s availability was made yesterday when Deadline exclusively reported that the upcoming The Piano Lesson would play the Ethel Barrymore Theatre rather than the previously...
Initially scheduled to close on August 21, the production has been extended for an additional eight weeks, with tickets now on sale through October 16. Additional extensions are possible.
Jordan Roth, President of Jujamcyn Theaters, announced the extension today. The production began life this past spring as a New York City Center Encores! production. The James Lapine-Stephen Sondheim musical is directed by Lear deBessonet,
The production currently stars Sara Bareilles, Brian d’Arcy James , Gavin Creel, Julia Lester, Patina Miller, Phillipa Soo and Joshua Henry, among others, but casting for the extension was not announced.
The extension comes as news of the venue’s availability was made yesterday when Deadline exclusively reported that the upcoming The Piano Lesson would play the Ethel Barrymore Theatre rather than the previously...
- 7/27/2022
- by Greg Evans
- Deadline Film + TV
Just shy of one month ago, a revival of legendary composer Stephen Sondheim’s musical “Company” took home five Tony Awards, including the top prize for Best Revival. Now a remounting of one of his most popular works, “Into the Woods,” has just kicked off the new 2022-2023 Broadway season. The production, which opened at the St. James Theatre on July 10 for an extremely limited run, originated as a starry two-week gala at New York City Center in May and earned such acclaim that it quickly announced this Broadway engagement with most of its cast in tact.
Brilliantly weaving together different fairytale characters, “Into the Woods” is a beautiful and moving fable (and cautionary tale) about parenting and community and of childhood wonder and the loss of innocence. The musical features a libretto by James Lapine, and Lear deBessonet helms this production. The enviable ensemble includes Tony nominees Sara Bareilles,...
Brilliantly weaving together different fairytale characters, “Into the Woods” is a beautiful and moving fable (and cautionary tale) about parenting and community and of childhood wonder and the loss of innocence. The musical features a libretto by James Lapine, and Lear deBessonet helms this production. The enviable ensemble includes Tony nominees Sara Bareilles,...
- 7/13/2022
- by David Buchanan
- Gold Derby
Exclusive: Cheyenne Jackson will step into the roles of Cinderella’s Prince and Red Riding Hood’s Wolf for a weeklong stint in Broadway’s hit revival Into the Woods, taking over for Gavin Creel during a previously scheduled absence.
Jackson will play the roles from July 24-August 2 while Creel fulfills prior commitments. The latter will return to the production on August 6 following a residence at The O’Neill National Musical Theatre Conference performing the project he wrote, Walk on Through: Confessions of a Museum Novice.
“I’m honored and elated to have been asked to return to my Broadway roots and join this enchanted production of Into the Woods alongside these beautiful artists,” Jackson said. “As a father of two young children, this piece resonates even deeper for me now, and I cannot wait to return to the St James Theatre and go Into the Woods once more.”
Lee Daniels...
Jackson will play the roles from July 24-August 2 while Creel fulfills prior commitments. The latter will return to the production on August 6 following a residence at The O’Neill National Musical Theatre Conference performing the project he wrote, Walk on Through: Confessions of a Museum Novice.
“I’m honored and elated to have been asked to return to my Broadway roots and join this enchanted production of Into the Woods alongside these beautiful artists,” Jackson said. “As a father of two young children, this piece resonates even deeper for me now, and I cannot wait to return to the St James Theatre and go Into the Woods once more.”
Lee Daniels...
- 7/12/2022
- by Greg Evans
- Deadline Film + TV
Even in a second- or third-rate production, Into the Woods is delightful, big and lovable and accessible and loaded with some of Stephen Sondheim’s most gorgeous and endearing songs.
In a top-flight production, the 1986 musical is transcendent. And make no mistake: Whatever else this summer will be remembered for, we can say this: New Yorkers and visitors to this city currently have a chance to witness the transcendence of a musical theater masterpiece.
Originally staged at New York City Center Encores!, Lear deBessonet’s magnificent, starry Into The Woods all but demanded a Broadway transfer, with sold-out crowds packing City Center and those left out wanting in. Last week at a Broadway preview, the audience was so stoked for this show and this cast that a loud and prolonged cacophony of applause greeted the rise of the curtain. Clearly, this Into The Woods preceded itself.
To say it delivers...
In a top-flight production, the 1986 musical is transcendent. And make no mistake: Whatever else this summer will be remembered for, we can say this: New Yorkers and visitors to this city currently have a chance to witness the transcendence of a musical theater masterpiece.
Originally staged at New York City Center Encores!, Lear deBessonet’s magnificent, starry Into The Woods all but demanded a Broadway transfer, with sold-out crowds packing City Center and those left out wanting in. Last week at a Broadway preview, the audience was so stoked for this show and this cast that a loud and prolonged cacophony of applause greeted the rise of the curtain. Clearly, this Into The Woods preceded itself.
To say it delivers...
- 7/11/2022
- by Greg Evans
- Deadline Film + TV
Tony Awards nominations were announced on Monday, May 9 by Adrienne Warren and Joshua Henry. While the nominations for the 75th annual Tony Awards were determined by a few dozen theater professionals, winners were decided by upwards of 650 members of the Broadway community.
The Tonys take place June 12 at Radio City Music Hall hosted by newly minted Oscar winner Ariana DeBose. The 2022 Tony Awards winners list below includes all 26 competitive categories.
Musicals
Best Musical
“Girl From the North Country”
“Mj”
“Mr. Saturday Night”
“Paradise Square”
“Six”
X — “A Strange Loop”
Best Musical Revival
“Caroline, or Change”
X — “Company”
“The Music Man”
Best Actor (Musical)
Billy Crystal, “Mr. Saturday Night”
X — Myles Frost, “Mj”
Hugh Jackman, “The Music Man”
Rob McClure, “Mrs. Doubtfire”
Jaquel Spivey, “A Strange Loop”
Best Actress (Musical)
Sharon D Clarke, “Caroline, Or Change”
Carmen Cusack, “Flying Over Sunset”
Sutton Foster, “The Music Man”
X — Joaquina Kalukango, “Paradise Square”
Mare Winningham,...
The Tonys take place June 12 at Radio City Music Hall hosted by newly minted Oscar winner Ariana DeBose. The 2022 Tony Awards winners list below includes all 26 competitive categories.
Musicals
Best Musical
“Girl From the North Country”
“Mj”
“Mr. Saturday Night”
“Paradise Square”
“Six”
X — “A Strange Loop”
Best Musical Revival
“Caroline, or Change”
X — “Company”
“The Music Man”
Best Actor (Musical)
Billy Crystal, “Mr. Saturday Night”
X — Myles Frost, “Mj”
Hugh Jackman, “The Music Man”
Rob McClure, “Mrs. Doubtfire”
Jaquel Spivey, “A Strange Loop”
Best Actress (Musical)
Sharon D Clarke, “Caroline, Or Change”
Carmen Cusack, “Flying Over Sunset”
Sutton Foster, “The Music Man”
X — Joaquina Kalukango, “Paradise Square”
Mare Winningham,...
- 6/12/2022
- by David Buchanan
- Gold Derby
Acclaimed ‘Into The Woods’ Encores! Production Will Move To Broadway In June, With Some Cast Changes
One of the spring’s hottest Off Broadway tickets will make the move to Broadway this summer: The acclaimed, sold-out Encores! production of the James Lapine-Stephen Sondheim classic Into The Wood will transfer to Broadway’s St. James Theatre on June 28 for a strictly limited eight-week engagement.
Making the move from New York City Center to the St. James will be Sara Bareilles (as the Baker’s Wife) and Gavin Creel (as the Wolf/Cinderella’s Prince). Not along for the ride: Neil Patrick Harris and Heather Headley.
Taking over the role of the Baker from Harris will be Brian D’Arcy James, while Patina Miller will play the Witch, taking over for Headley. Phillipa Soo will play Cinderella (Denée Benton at City Center) and Joshua Henry will take over for Jordan Donica as Rapunzel’s Prince.
Also making the move to Broadway will be City Center cast members Ta’Nika Gibson as Lucinda,...
Making the move from New York City Center to the St. James will be Sara Bareilles (as the Baker’s Wife) and Gavin Creel (as the Wolf/Cinderella’s Prince). Not along for the ride: Neil Patrick Harris and Heather Headley.
Taking over the role of the Baker from Harris will be Brian D’Arcy James, while Patina Miller will play the Witch, taking over for Headley. Phillipa Soo will play Cinderella (Denée Benton at City Center) and Joshua Henry will take over for Jordan Donica as Rapunzel’s Prince.
Also making the move to Broadway will be City Center cast members Ta’Nika Gibson as Lucinda,...
- 5/26/2022
- by Greg Evans
- Deadline Film + TV
Photo: 2022 Tony Nominees The Awards Picture The Tony Nominees were announced the morning of May 9th by Adrienne Warren and Joshua Henry. A Strange Loop garnered the most nominations, eleven, and was closely followed by Paradise Square and Mj, each of which earned ten. Though A Strange Loop seems set up to take home the most awards, the nominations are pretty spread out this year, and the competition is far from one-sided. The Company revival and Six: The Musical have both been sensations, and the Bob Dylan jukebox musical Girl From the North Country is gorgeous, if humbler than some of the other nominated musicals. As for plays, The Lehman Trilogy earned the most nominations with eight, but was followed closely by both revivals and other new plays. Related article: Oscar-nominated - Exclusive: 'Dune' Full Commentary, Reactions, Making Of - Timothee Chalamet, Zendaya, Oscar Isaac Related article: Oscar-nominated...
- 5/10/2022
- by Kevin Hauger
- Hollywood Insider - Substance & Meaningful Entertainment
Now, these stars can take another bow. The full list of nominations for the 2022 Tony Awards were announced on May 9 by Tony Award-winner Adrienne Warren and three-time nominee Joshua Henry. Leading the pack with an impressive 10 nominations is the musical A Strange Loop, followed by Mj and Paradise Square, which each earned 9 nominations. However, it's not just the productions themselves that are up for a few awards, as the shows' stars, cast and crew have also nabbed themselves recognition in their respective categories. Co-stars Jesse Williams and Jesse Tyler Ferguson are up against each other for Best Performance by an Actor in a Featured Role in a Play for Take Me Out, which is...
- 5/9/2022
- E! Online
On Monday at 9 a.m. Et/ 6 a.m. Pt, Tony Award-winning actress Adrienne Warren and three-time Tony-nominated actor Joshua Henry will announce the 75th annual Tony Award nominations.
Presented by The Broadway League and the American Theatre Wing, the Tony Awards nominations can be livestreamed below or on the official Tony Awards YouTube page.
Warren won a Tony for her starring performance in Tina: The Tina Turner Musical. She was also nominated for Shuffle Along after making her Broadway debut in 2012 in Bring It On: The Musical.
Henry, who can currently be seen starring opposite Jason Mamoa in Apple TV’s See, was Tony-nominated for performances in Carousel, Violet and The Scottsboro Boys.
Newly minted Oscar-winner Ariana DeBose will host this year’s Tonys. DeBose, who was Tony-nominated in 2018 for Summer: The Donna Summer Musical, will host the live from New York’s Radio City Music Hall on Sunday, June...
Presented by The Broadway League and the American Theatre Wing, the Tony Awards nominations can be livestreamed below or on the official Tony Awards YouTube page.
Warren won a Tony for her starring performance in Tina: The Tina Turner Musical. She was also nominated for Shuffle Along after making her Broadway debut in 2012 in Bring It On: The Musical.
Henry, who can currently be seen starring opposite Jason Mamoa in Apple TV’s See, was Tony-nominated for performances in Carousel, Violet and The Scottsboro Boys.
Newly minted Oscar-winner Ariana DeBose will host this year’s Tonys. DeBose, who was Tony-nominated in 2018 for Summer: The Donna Summer Musical, will host the live from New York’s Radio City Music Hall on Sunday, June...
- 5/9/2022
- by Tom Tapp
- Deadline Film + TV
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