Stay up to date with notifications from The Independent

Notifications can be managed in browser preferences.

Aladdin: Disney's live-action adaptation casts titular character, Genie, and Princess Jasmine

Will Smith has taken the coveted role once held by Robin Williams 

Jack Shepherd
Sunday 16 July 2017 09:53 BST
Comments

Your support helps us to tell the story

From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.

At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.

The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.

Your support makes all the difference.

Following reports earlier this week that Guy Ritchie was struggling to cast his live-action Aladdin adaptation, Disney has announced the principle cast members.

Egyptian-Canadian actor Mena Massoud - best known for roles in Jack Ryan and Open Heart - will play the titular character, while Naomi Scott will portray Princess Jasmine, the actor having recently appeared in the rebooted Power Rangers as the pink ranger.

Long standing rumours that Will Smith would voice the Genie have also been confirmed, the Suicide Squad and I Am Legend star taking the coveted role.

Massoud took to Twitter to celebrate the official announcement, writing: “So honoured and grateful for the opportunity to help bring this magical story to life once again. Let's get to work!”

Previous reports suggested Scott and Indian actress Tara Sutaria were in contention to play Jasmine, but the casting was delayed until Aladdin was cast due to the pair’s chemistry being key.

Meanwhile, rumours are circulating online that Tom Hardy may be in contention to play the villainous Jafar, something Disney failed to clarify.

Over the weekend, the Disney convention D23 took place, numerous snippets of information being released, including a new look at Star Wars: The Last Jedi.

Join our commenting forum

Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies

Comments

Thank you for registering

Please refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in