Disney expands 'Descendants' universe with Hidden Heroes and fresh cast reveal

Disney expands the 'Descendants' universe with Hidden Heroes, featuring the children of iconic Disney sidekicks

Disney is expanding its popular Descendants franchise with a new live-action film titled Hidden Heroes: A Descendants Story, introducing a fresh generation of characters inspired by some of Disney’s most beloved sidekicks.

Production on the upcoming Disney movie is scheduled to begin next week. Unlike previous entries centred on the children of famous Disney villains, Hidden Heroes shifts the spotlight to the descendants of iconic supporting characters from classic animated films.

The cast includes Dior Goodjohn as Jennie, the daughter of Genie from Aladdin; Momona Tamada as Zara, the daughter of Yzma from The Emperor’s New Groove; Jacob Rodriguez as Kronk Jr., the son of Kronk; Eva Fossaceca Smedley as Meri, the daughter of Merryweather from Sleeping Beauty; and Harry Jones as Lou, the son of Lumiere from Beauty and the Beast. Rhys Dawkins, Connor Wong and Kyra Wong will also appear as the Potts siblings from Beauty and the Beast.

According to Disney, the story follows a secret academy where the descendants of legendary sidekicks train to become trusted partners to future heroes. When a dangerous villainous duo threatens the academy, the young recruits must rely on their own abilities to protect the fairytale world without help from heroes or their parents.

The screenplay is written by Tamara Chestna, Eydie Faye and Emma Fletcher, while Jude Weng directs the film. Mark Ordesky, Jane Fleming, Gary Marsh and Chestna serve as executive producers, with Disney Kids & Family producing the project.

Disney said the film expands the Descendants universe by exploring familiar stories from a new perspective while continuing the franchise’s signature blend of music, dance and adventure.