If a Disney fan blog is correct, the media giant has decided to halt production on a cherished franchise worth $1 billion, featuring Will Smith in a leading role.
Following the resounding success of the live-action adaptation of “Aladdin” (2019), which grossed over $1 billion globally with Smith in the iconic role of the Genie, expectations were high for a sequel, “Aladdin II.” However, the landscape shifted dramatically following the infamous incident at the 2022 Oscars ceremony when Smith slapped host Chris Rock after Rock delivered a joke about Smith’s wife, Jada Pinkett Smith. It seems, like many of Will Smith’s other projects, the on-air assault affected his future with Disney.
Inside the Magic fan blog claims that Disney is no longer in a working relationship with the acclaimed actor.
Inside the Magic seems to be the only publication to report on the rumored cancellation of “Aladdin II.”
There were indeed plans for an “Aladdin II,” as confirmed by Disney in 2020, according to Screen Rant. However, recent updates suggest that while the live-action Aladdin sequel has not been officially canceled, progress on it has stalled indefinitely. Director Guy Ritchie mentioned in February 2023 that ideas were being discussed for the sequel, but there is no set release date for “Aladdin II.”
The cast of “Aladdin II” was expected to be similar to the original movie, with actors like Mena Massoud, Naomi Scott, and Navid Negahban likely to return. The involvement of Smith as Genie in the sequel was uncertain, with discussions about potential new directions for the storyline. Despite initial plans for “Aladdin II,” the current status of the project remains unclear due to the lack of recent updates and a confirmed release date.
As Finurah previously reported, the live-action retelling of “Aladdin” became his highest-grossing movie of all time, earning $1.051 billion. Smith reportedly earned $12.5 million for his role as Genie in “Aladdin,” which had a reported budget of $183 million. While Smith’s portrayal received mixed reviews from critics, fans adored his performance in the film.
Despite Smith’s involvement with Disney or the anticipation of a sequel to a fan-favorite live-action movie, a rarity among tough critics, the actor has no trouble in finding work. In 2022, he completed an Apple TV exclusive called “Emancipation.” Additionally, he wrapped up production for the 2024 release of “Bad Boys Ride or Die.”
Smith has also taken on the role of TV producer. In 2022, he served as an executive producer for several projects: the mini-series “Women of the Movement,” “Bel-Air,” and “This Joka.”
