Disney Plus has greenlit a new musical series that will be a precursor or prequel to the 2017 live-action version of the iconic animated film The Beauty and the Beast. The live-action film starred Emma Watson and Dan Stevens in the titular roles. The series will star Luke Evans, Josh Gad and Briana Middleton

As per media reports neither Emma nor Dan will star in the prequel series as it focuses on Gaston (Luke Evans), LeFou/Louie (Josh Gad) and a new character in the form of Louie’s stepsister Tilly (Briana Middleton). Alan Menken has been roped in to give the soundtrack of the new film. The prequel will be set years before the events of Beauty and the Beast took place as per a statement from Disney. The new film will follow Gaston, LeFou and Tilly as they go on an ‘unexpected journey’ after a surprising revelation from Tilly’s past comes to light.

Luke Evans, Briana Middleton. Josh Gad

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Disney’s statement reads, “While the mysteries of the past are uncovered and the dangers of the present grow, old friends and new enemies reveal that this familiar kingdom harbours many secrets.”The series will delve into the origins of the beast’s curse and it remains to be seen how Gaston, LeFou and LeFou’s stepsister have to do with the beast’s curse.  “For anyone who’s ever wondered how a brute like Gaston and a goof like LeFou could have ever become friends and partners, or how a mystical enchantress came to cast that fateful spell on the prince-turned-beast, this series will finally provide those answers…and provoke a whole new set of questions,” said Gary Marsh, president and chief creative officer, Disney Branded Television.

The prequel series will be written by Josh Gad and executive produced by Edward Kitsis and Adam Horowitz. Liesl Tommy will also serve as an executive producer. Liesl will also direct the first episode. The series will go on floors in the spring of 2022. The project, which originated at ABC Signature, comes as Disney marks the 30th anniversary of the Beauty and the Beast animated 1991 classic. The series will be produced by Disney Branded Television and ABC Signature.

(Source: Disney/Deadline)