Disney’s live-action adaptation of Aladdin may very well have found its Genie!
Deadline reports that Will Smith (AKA everyone’s favorite Fresh Prince) is officially in talks to take on the role of one of Disney’s most beloved characters.
It probably goes without saying that Smith will have some incredibly big shoes to fill if he officially signs on. The Suicide Squad star would be taking on the role first made famous by the late Robin Williams.
As difficult as it is to imagine anyone but Williams brining Genie to life, it’s not hard to see why Disney, and Aladdin director Guy Ritchie, are eyeing Smith for the role.
As an actor, Smith has never had a problem playing up the goofier aspects of comedy roles he’s taken on in the past — something that would surely help when it comes to bringing a character like Genie to life. Additionally, Smith is well known for his musical prowess, which is bound to come in handy given the fact that Aladdin, like Beauty and the Beast is slated to be a live-action musical.
Even so, it’s interesting to hear that Smith is currently in talks for Aladdin — especially given rumors of his involvement in another one of Disney’s live-action endeavors. As you might remember, earlier this year, we told you that Smith was also in early talks to star in Tim Burton’s Dumbo.
Though Smith hasn’t been officially confirmed for either role, we’ll be interested to see if he’s cast in both, or merely in one of Disney’s upcoming projects.
Regardless, we’re sure all of you Disney fans have a lot of thoughts with regards to Smith potentially bringing Aladdin’s Genie to life on the big screen. So hit the comments below and let us know.