The live-action adaptation of the classic tale, The Frog Prince, titled Princess and the Frog, has officially announced the casting of Jenna Ortega and Simu Liu, according to Disney. The film is set to be directed by Jon Favreau, who previously directed Disney’s The Lion King and The Jungle Book, and will bring this classic story into the modern era.

Jenna Ortega, known for her roles in Jane the Virgin and You, has been cast as the lead role of Tiana, a young woman who dreams of opening her own restaurant in 1920s New Orleans. Simu Liu, who recently starred in Marvel’s Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings, will be playing Prince Naveen, a charming but lazy prince from the fictional country of Maldonia.

Jenna Ortega expressed her excitement about playing Tiana, stating, “I am thrilled to be part of a project that showcases the beauty and richness of different cultures and experiences. Growing up, I didn’t see many characters on screen who looked like me or came from similar backgrounds, so it’s truly an honor to play this role.”

“I feel privileged to be a part of the remarkable team and cast of ‘Princess and the Frog.’ This tale is cherished by countless individuals, and I am thrilled to contribute to introducing it to a new generation of admirers. As an Asian performer, it is uncommon for me to witness my representation as a prince or a romantic protagonist on screen. Thus, being selected as Prince Naveen in ‘Princess and the Frog’ is a realization of my aspirations. I anticipate that this film will motivate young individuals of all ethnicities to perceive themselves as protagonists in their own tales.”