Anne Hathaway is set to revisit the universe of one of her beloved cult classic movies.
Deadline has announced that Ella Enchanted will be reimagined as a television series, currently in the early stages of development for Disney+. Hathaway will serve as an executive producer alongside Ilana Wolpert, Beth Schwartz, Johnathan Rice, and Adam Shulman.
Beth Schwartz, known for her work on Dead Boy Detectives, will act as the showrunner for the series, while Ilana Wolpert from Anyone But You is set to pen the script. The production will be a collaborative effort between Miramax Television and Paramount Television Studios, with a notable history as Miramax was previously owned by Disney until its sale in 2010.
The television adaptation promises to remain faithful to the original storyline of the movie, which centers on Ella of Frell. Ella is burdened with a curse by the fairy Lucinda Perriweather that compels her to obey every direct command. The Disney+ adaptation will feature a coming-of-age angle and is set in a boarding school where Ella is sent after her mother’s death.
Throughout the series, Ella uncovers startling truths about her curse while navigating typical teenage experiences, including first crushes and forming a surrogate family.
The narrative basis of both the original film and this upcoming series stems from Gail Carson Levine’s 1997 Newbery Honor-winning novel. Levine expanded this enchanting universe with additional books: Fairest in 2006 and Ogre Enchanted in 2018.
The first screen adaptation of Ella Enchanted was a musical film released in 2004, starring Hathaway and directed by Tommy O’Haver. It featured a soundtrack with popular songs by Elton John, Aretha Franklin, Katrina and the Waves, and Queen. Despite its vibrant soundtrack, the movie did not perform strongly at the box office, earning $27.4 million and receiving mixed reviews, indicated by a 51% rating on Rotten Tomatoes. The film’s cast included Hugh Dancy, Cary Elwes, Vivica A. Fox, Joanna Lumley, and others. It was later adapted into a stage musical in 2017.
Following her roles in The Princess Diaries and Ella Enchanted, Hathaway’s career flourished with appearances in films such as The Princess Diaries 2: Royal Engagement, Brokeback Mountain, The Devil Wears Prada, and many more leading to a string of successful projects and acclaimed performances.
Hathaway’s portrayal of Fantine in Les Misérables garnered her an Oscar, Golden Globe, SAG Award, BAFTA, and Critics’ Choice Award for Best Supporting Actress. She continues to be a prominent figure in Hollywood with multiple releases this year, including The Devil Wears Prada 2 and upcoming projects with renowned directors.
Now, with a wealth of experience in front of the camera, Hathaway is embracing a role behind the scenes as she prepares to executive produce the Disney+ adaptation of Ella Enchanted, a project that is still finalizing its cast and premiere details.
Ava Thornton is an entertainment journalist with a keen eye for the latest in Hollywood, indie films, and streaming trends.
Her work blends insider knowledge with a deep appreciation for storytelling.
