Since her initial portrayal for Disney back in 1997, Brandy Norwood has returned to the silver screen, reuniting with her original co-star Paolo Montalban in the eagerly awaited sequel 'Descendants: The Rise of Red.' Not only is she relishing this reunion, but she also has an eagerly anticipated A24 film waiting in the shadows.
This year has been a triumphant one for Norwood, marked by her return as the beloved Cinderella character, over two decades after her initial Disney portrayal. She starred opposite Montalban as Prince Charming in ABC's 1997 television movie 'Cinderella,' and now the duo is back to reprise their iconic roles in 'Descendants: The Rise of the Red,' currently streaming on Disney+ and set to premiere on the Disney Channel on August 9.
"We're honored, blessed, and thrilled," Norwood exclaims to The Hollywood Reporter about reuniting with Montalban. "This is a magical experience to work with Paolo again, to dance with him, to sing with him—every moment is pure joy."
The new film, the fourth installment in the popular 'Descendants' franchise, centers around Red (Kylie Cantrall), the daughter of the Queen of Hearts (Rita Ora), and Chloe, the daughter of Cinderella (Norwood), as they set aside their differences to save their world with the help of time travel.
Norwood reveals that the "chemistry was instant" between herself and Montalban. Montalban echoes her sentiments, confessing that his favorite moment on the new project was Norwood's grand entrance: "It was a rainy day, and we were inside our palace. She emerged from the mist, looking absolutely resplendent."
Playing their daughter, Baker, witnessed their special bond firsthand. "The connection between them, all these years later, is truly remarkable," Baker says. "It's exactly what you hope for and imagine. Being a small part of that is a surreal experience. It's been magical."
The 1997 'Cinderella' movie, with a stellar cast including Whitney Houston, Whoopi Goldberg, and Bernadette Peters, continues to be fondly remembered for its inclusive casting, featuring people of color in lead roles. Montalban applauds the 'Descendants' movies for continuing this tradition.
"Not only is there diverse representation in the [Descendants] characters, but there's also a representation of different types of families," Montalban says. "It feels natural in this world because it should be normal, just as it is in our world. This makes people feel like they belong and are seen."
Norwood's recent accomplishments are numerous. She stars in the psychological horror film 'The Front Room' from A24, releasing in September. Additionally, Ariana Grande's reimagined version of "The Boy Is Mine," Norwood's chart-topping duet with Monica from 1998, has been receiving radio play, with Monica and Norwood making cameo appearances in the music video.
"It's a renaissance!" Norwood exclaims when asked about this busy period. "I'm still inspired. I love what I do. I'm excited for everything to hit the screens and see what people think, and if they can still be inspired by my work."
Regarding the tease at the end of 'Descendants: The Rise of Red,' which seems to promise a sequel, Norwood hints that she's been in talks to reprise her role as Cinderella. "I've heard whispers," she teases. "I can't confirm anything, but there's been some talk. It would be wonderful."
