Anika Noni Rose Speaks Out After Disney Scraps ‘Tiana’ Series
Disney’s first Black princess, Anika Noni Rose isn’t hiding her disappointment after “Tiana,” the long-awaited “Princess and the Frog” spin-off series, was scrapped while still in development.
The Disney+ animated series, announced in 2020, was set to follow Tiana’s next chapter after the 2009 classic. Rose was set to reprise her iconic role, with Joyce Sherri on board as the lead writer and director.
However, earlier this month, Disney confirmed that “Tiana” would no longer proceed as a complete series but would instead be reimagined as a short-form special event.
In an emotional Instagram post, Rose shared her thoughts on the abrupt change.
“I too am deeply disappointed that the continuation of Tiana’s journey in series form has been cut short,” she wrote. “The series was a long time coming, and a lot of beautiful work was put into it by all of the creatives involved, including but not limited to long-time champion Jenn Lee, our wonderful writer/director Joyce Sherri, some fabulous animators and an amazing music team.”
While expressing her frustration, the Tony-winning actress encouraged fans to show up in full force when the “Tiana” special airs.
“As hurtful as it is for anything you’ve put your heart and soul into to be prematurely ended, my hope is that when what is now to be a Tiana Special Event airs, that all of you beautiful, loving, loyal fans who’ve been championing not just the series, but a Princess and the Frog sequel, tune in,” she urged. “Tell your friends, family, coworkers, babysitters… Show your love and your desire in the numbers. Make that desire an undeniable and real thing.”
“The Princess and the Frog,” released in 2009, ultimately became a landmark film for Disney. Not only did the project bring back traditional animation, but it also made history with Tiana as the studio’s first Black princess. The movie grossed $271 million worldwide and scored three Academy Award nominations, including two nods for Best Original Song.
Rose’s portrayal of Tiana earned widespread acclaim, cementing her legacy as the beloved Disney princess. In 2011, she was officially honored as a Disney Legend.
