The 1940 Disney classic Pinocchio is back — this time with a brand new cast bringing the beloved characters to life in a live-action remake starring Tom Hanks, Benjamin Evan Ainsworth, Cynthia Erivo, Luke Evans, and more.
Hollywood Unlocked was live on the red carpet at Disney’s campus in Burbank, California, for the world premiere, where we caught up with stars Cynthia Erivo and Benjamin Evan Ainsworth, as well as excited fans celebrating the film’s return.
Tom Hanks steps into the role of Geppetto, a grieving father who wishes upon a star for his lost son — a wish that brings Pinocchio, played by Ainsworth, to life thanks to the magic of the Blue Fairy, portrayed by Cynthia Erivo. And from there, the timeless journey unfolds — but with a fresh, new perspective.
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While on the carpet, we asked the cast what they would wish for if given the chance. Much like the heart of the film, their answers reflected hopes for peace, love, compassion, and unity — reminding everyone of the timeless magic behind Disney’s storytelling.
Disney’s Push for Representation
With this live-action remake, Disney continues to break barriers when it comes to representation on screen. In the 1940 animated original, the Blue Fairy was portrayed by late actress Evelyn Venable. Now, in a groundbreaking update, Grammy, Tony, Emmy, and Academy Award nominee Cynthia Erivo — a British Nigerian woman — brings the iconic character to life.
Speaking with Erivo on the carpet, we asked about the importance of representation in Disney’s modern adaptations. She shared:
“Black girls like us just weren’t included for such a long time, and so now to be in this world—to be told we can be fairies, we can be mermaids, it’s really special, and I’m really glad I get to be a part of it.”
Erivo also referenced Disney’s continued momentum, pointing to Halle Bailey’s upcoming role as Ariel in The Little Mermaid live-action remake, and H.E.R.’s casting as Belle in the upcoming Beauty and the Beast 30th Anniversary Special.
The premiere of Pinocchio also coincided with Disney’s World Princess Week, a celebration that highlights decades of groundbreaking representation — from Brandy’s iconic portrayal of Cinderella in Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Cinderella alongside Whitney Houston, to films like Mulan, The Princess and the Frog, Moana, and Pocahontas.
The live-action Pinocchio is a story for the whole family to enjoy and is now available to stream on Disney+ starting September 8th.
Experience the magic — and see how far a single wish can go.