Disney's upcoming "Beauty and the Beast" live action is moving forward and it's full-steam ahead as major roles have reportedly been cast.
Following January's confirmation that "Harry Potter" beauty Emma Watson, 24, will be playing Belle in the new project, the two leading-male parts are also said to be nearing finalization.
Beast and Gaston Cast?
Variety just reported that actor Luke Evans, 35, of "The Hobbit" series will be playing the villainous Gaston while Dan Stevens, 32, of "Downton Abbey" will take on the role of Beast.
Luke Evans, with his manly physique and strong jaw, is undeniably a great option for the role. Just Jared notes that musically, he's also ready for the challenge. Evans is no stranger to musicals as he has been part of a number of West End productions in London.
Now, when it come to the character of the Beast, Stevens, as reported by The Hollywood Reporter, is also in negotiations.
For those who don't remember the plot of the classic fairy-tale, Gaston is the village hearth-throb who has decided Belle will be the woman he marries. Unfortunately, Belle is turned off by Gaston's simplicity and after circumstances occur, ends up as a "prisoner" of the Beast. Over time, they begin to fall in love but Gaston leads a group of villagers to kill the Beast to win Belle over.
Once the details are final, director Bill Condon will be working with the all-British cast, with the help of David Hoberman and Todd Lieberman as producers.
To date, no official confirmation on the Beast and Gaston casting has been announced by Disney.
Watson made the Belle casting announcement via her Facebook Page in late January and the response was overwhelming. With nearly 1.3 million likes and over 64,000 shares, the world looks to be as excited as Emma.
"I'm finally able to tell you... that I will be playing Belle in Disney's new live-action Beauty and the Beast! It was such a big part of my growing up, it almost feels surreal that I'll get to dance to 'Be Our Guest' and sing 'Something There'. My six year old self is on the ceiling - heart bursting. Time to start some singing lessons. I can't wait for you to see it. Emma xx"
Production is set to begin towards the end of 2015 and no release date has been announced.
Stay tuned for more!
