Despite some criticism about her upcoming role as Tinker Bell, Yara Shahidi says diversity has long been needed in Disney films.
The 23-year-old shared her views with Byrdie, expressing her longing for representation in children’s movies delivered by the company. When taking on the role of the famed fairy in “Peter Pan & Wendy,” Shahidi had this objective in mind. The “Grown-ish” star spoke with director David Lowery, sharing that she was pleased with his desire to allow people of color to see characters that looked like them. After that chat, Shahidi felt that Lowery wasn’t interested in simply “popping Black and Brown folks in the cast.”
“Instead, it’s about creating a story that so many more people can see themselves in after we’ve been left out for so long,” Shahidi said during her chat with Byrdie for its digital Revival Issue.
Last month, the first images of Shahidi as Tinker Bell sparked heavy debate across social media. While many praised her upcoming appearance in the live-action film, others slammed the decision to cast her in the part. Fans of the animated movie right out believed that a white woman should have portrayed the fictional fairy. Then, there were those who believed Disney should have recreated a new film altogether instead of another remake.
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Nevertheless, Shahidi is ready for the film’s debut, and Disney is celebrating with an all-new Tinker Bell doll modeled after the actress. “Peter & Wendy” will arrive on Disney+ on April 28th.
