Disney is expanding its Beauty and the Beast universe once again, with a new live-action film now in development.
Originally released in 1991, Beauty and the Beast is inspired by the classic French fairy tale and quickly cemented its place in cinema history. The animated feature was groundbreaking, becoming the first animated film ever nominated for the Academy Award for Best Picture. Its success led to multiple follow-ups, including the direct-to-video releases Beauty and the Beast: The Enchanted Christmas (1997) and Beauty and the Beast: Belle’s Magical World (1998), as well as the alternate-continuity title Belle’s Tales of Friendship in 1999.
Disney revisited the story in live action in 2017 with a film directed by Bill Condon. Starring Emma Watson as Belle, Dan Stevens as the Beast, and Luke Evans as Gaston, the adaptation was a massive global hit, earning more than $1.2 billion at the worldwide box office.
According to Deadline, Disney is now developing another live-action entry tied to the franchise—this time focusing on Gaston. The screenplay is being written by Dave Callaham (Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse), based on an earlier draft by Kate Herron and Briony Redman. Michelle Rejwan is attached as producer, though a director has not yet been announced.
At this stage, it remains unclear whether Luke Evans will return to reprise his role or if the studio plans to cast a new actor. Following the release of the 2017 film, Disney previously explored the idea of a live-action Beauty and the Beast television series, but the project never moved forward.
While specific plot details are being kept under wraps, sources indicate the film will offer a fresh and original take on the character, featuring a new interpretation of Gaston and a more “swashbuckling” tone. Insiders reportedly say Disney is highly enthusiastic about the concept as development continues.
