A New Vision for a Disney Legend
The entertainment world is buzzing with the news that Colman Domingo, the powerhouse actor and two-time Oscar nominee, is stepping into the role of a screenwriter. Domingo is reportedly collaborating with Tony-nominated director Robert O’Hara to co-write an original live-action feature centered around the beloved Princess Tiana.
Unlike a standard beat-for-beat remake, this project is being described as a spin-off of the 2009 animated classic The Princess and the Frog. This approach mirrors Disney’s recent strategy with projects like the upcoming Gaston film, focusing on expanding the universe rather than simply retelling the original story.
Bringing the Magic of New Orleans to Life
The original 2009 film holds a special place in Disney history as the last hand-drawn animated feature produced by the studio. Set in the vibrant atmosphere of 1920s New Orleans, it tells the story of Tiana, a hardworking waitress with dreams of owning her own restaurant, and her journey alongside Prince Naveen.
With the combined creative brilliance of Colman Domingo and Robert O’Hara, fans can expect a narrative that brings a fresh, sophisticated perspective to Tiana’s world. While official deals are still in the early stages, the anticipation is already sky-high.
The Powerhouse Duo: Domingo and O’Hara
This partnership is a match made in creative heaven. Colman Domingo is not just an acting phenomenon; he has a deep background in theatrical writing and production. His impressive portfolio includes:
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- The book for Summer: The Donna Summer Musical (2018).
- Co-producing Fat Ham, a modern take on Shakespeare’s Hamlet.
- Multiple acclaimed plays such as The Brother(s) and Dot.
Joining him is Robert O’Hara, known for his provocative and critically acclaimed work, including the 2020 Tony-nominated Slave Play and the Lambda Literary Award-winning Bootycandy. O’Hara’s ability to explore complex themes of identity and race suggests that this Princess Tiana story will have significant emotional depth.
Disney’s Live-Action Strategy: Hits and Misses
This project arrives at a pivotal moment for Disney’s live-action division. While some recent releases have faced mixed reception at the box office—such as the live-action Moana—others have become global juggernauts. The 2025 version of Lilo & Stitch, for example, grossed over $1 billion, proving that audiences still have a massive appetite for these reimaginings when the execution is right.
Other upcoming live-action projects include Tangled, Stepsisters (a Cinderella spin-off), and Impossible Creatures, signaling that Disney is doubling down on its animated legacy.
What’s Next for Colman Domingo?
If you think writing a movie is the only thing on his plate, think again. Colman Domingo continues to be one of the busiest men in Hollywood. From his double Emmy nominations for Euphoria and Four Seasons to his role as Joe Jackson in the hit film Michael, Domingo is cementing his status as a generational talent. Whether he is hosting Jimmy Kimmel Live! or dominating the awards circuit, his influence on modern cinema is undeniable.
