Disney is moving forward on a live-action film centred on Princess Tiana, the protagonist of 2009’s The Princess and the Frog, with Colman Domingo and director Robert O'Hara reportedly in early discussions to co-write the project.
Not a straight remake
According to industry reporting, the proposed feature is intended as an original spin-off rather than a scene-by-scene live-action retelling of the animated classic. That approach follows other new directions Disney has explored alongside more faithful remakes.
Tiana first appeared in the 2009 animated film as a hardworking New Orleans waitress with ambitions of opening a restaurant. In the original story she and Prince Naveen are transformed into frogs, adventure through the bayou and — eventually — return to human form and marry, culminating in the opening of Tiana’s Palace.
Creative team and context
Colman Domingo, known for his work on television and film, has earned Emmy and Academy Award recognition for past roles, while Robert O'Hara is a Tony-nominated director. The pair are reported to be collaborating on a fresh story that would expand Tiana’s world rather than simply recreate the 2009 narrative.
- Project status: reported to be in early development talks.
- Creative roles: Domingo and O'Hara expected to co-write; O'Hara also known as a director.
- Approach: described as an original spin-off rather than a direct remake.
Where this sits in Disney’s slate
The news arrives amid a mixed recent track record for Disney’s live-action adaptations. Some high-profile efforts have underperformed, while others have found large audiences. Industry observers view an original spin-off as a way to refresh a familiar character without retreading the same beats.
| Film | Year (reported) | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Moana | 2026 | Reported box-office disappointment |
| Snow White | 2025 | Reported underperformance |
| Lilo & Stitch | 2025 | Earned over $1 billion |
If the Tiana project advances, it will join a growing list of Disney features that revisit animated-era characters with live-action or hybrid approaches. For audiences and industry watchers, the key question will be whether a new, original story can revitalise a beloved character while avoiding franchise fatigue.
The film remains at an early stage and details, including casting, production timeline and release plans, have not been disclosed.
