Colman Domingo in talks to write Princess Tiana live-action spin-off

Years after “The Princess and the Frog” introduced Disney’s first Black princess, Tiana could be making her return in a brand-new live-action story.

According to “Deadline”, Colman Domingo and Robert O’Hara are in talks to write the project, which is being developed as an original spin-off rather than a remake.

While live-action remakes have become a regular part of Disney’s strategy, reports suggest this project won’t simply retell the 2009 animated classic.

Instead, it is being developed as an original story centred around Tiana, making it more of a spin-off than a scene-for-scene adaptation. 

According to reports, the approach is similar to Disney’s planned “Beauty and the Beast” spin-off centred on Gaston.

The project is still in its early stages, and deals have not yet been finalised.

The original animated film hit cinemas in 2009 and quickly became a fan favourite. It introduced audiences to Tiana, an ambitious young waitress from New Orleans who dreams of opening her own restaurant. 

After a kiss with the frog-turned Prince Naveen leaves her under the same spell, the pair set off on an unforgettable journey through the Louisiana bayou that changes both of their lives.

The film earned more than $267 million at the global box office and received three Academy Award nominations, including “Best Animated Feature” and two nominations for Randy Newman’s original songs, “Almost There” and “Down in New Orleans.”

Disney has not confirmed, however, if the project moves forward, it would also mark another milestone for Domingo, who continues to expand his career beyond acting.

Speaking in an interview with “Variety” while accepting the publication’s Creative Conscience Award earlier this year, Domingo reflected on finally being recognised as more than just an actor.

“I’m being seen now in a way that I’ve always wanted to be seen, which was a multi-hyphenate. I’ve never wanted to just be an actor. I’ve always wanted to act, write, direct and produce,” he said.

Beyond his acclaimed work on television and stage, the actor recently portrayed Joe Jackson, the patriarch of the Jackson family, in the beloved Michael Jackson biopic “Michael”. 

The film has been a major box office success, further cementing Domingo’s reputation as one of Hollywood’s most versatile talents, both in front of and behind the camera.