In 2020, Disney has announced the latest in its long line of live-action remakes of beloved animated films. In accordance with The Hollywood Reporter, it looks like Hercules will be flexing his Olympian muscles on screen at some point in the future. And it will have some wonderful genealogy attached behind the scenes. the avengers Joe and Anthony Russo are on board as producers, with Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings' writer Dave Callaham is attached to pen the script.
Walt Disney Animation Studios
This is still in the early stages of development, so no word on whether this will keep the music from the film or go Mulan route and leave the songs for a more action-oriented take. But considering this is one of the most memorable Disney musicals of the post-Howard Ashman/Alan Menken era, I'd say the odds are in favor of this one going to the full musical theater.
Although several years have passed since the initial announcement, there has been very little movement in live action Hercules Bye now. More recently, a May 2024the Russo brothers indicated that they are still ““waiting for a script.” It doesn’t sound promising, but it doesn’t look dead either.
So who will play the son of Zeus? As mentioned, it's too early to tell as the release ages. But by the time they start filming, fans are already clamoring for pop diva Ariana Grande to take over the role of Megaramainly due to his performance of the film song “I Won't Say I'm in Love” during the Disney Singing Family. Maybe this was his sneak audition?
Walt Disney Animation Studios
It's also unknown if this one will be theatrical or go straight to Disney+ The Lady and the Tramp and the next Robin Hood. But given that this tale of Greek mythology will likely need a big budget, one would expect Disney to ” go the distance” and make sure this one hits theaters before it lands on their streaming service.
Originally published on April 30, 2020.
Featured Image: Walt Disney Animation Studios
