After Emma Watson declined the lead, we can now confirm DOWNTON ABBEY beauty Lily James has beaten off competition from Bella Heathcote and Margot Robbie for the title role of Walt Disney Pictures’ live-action CINDERELLA. Kenneth Branagh will be at the helm of big-budget fairytale, which will re-imagine the young stunners horrid upbringing by her wicked stepmother and her magical night at the ball that changed everything.
She’ll appear alongside Oscar-winner Cate Blanchett, who’ll play her ruthless evil stepmother, with word suggesting GAME OF THRONES’ Richard Madden is the frontrunner to play Prince Charming. Shooting is expected to commence in October for a release thought to be Christmas 2014.
Here’s Disney’s short confirmation:
Actress Lily James (Downton Abbey) has been cast as Cinderella in Disney’s upcoming live-action interpretation of the beloved classic tale. The film is being directed by Sir Kenneth Branagh and stars Cate Blanchett as the iconic evil stepmother. Additional announcements regarding Cinderella are expected in the coming weeks.
Source: Walt Disney Pictures
