Because Lin-Manuel Miranda is really hurting for opportunity these days, the toast-of-Broadway composer, lyricist and star will now adapt a beloved animated film into live-action magic.
Walt Disney has tapped the “Hamilton” star for a flesh-and-bones take on “The Little Mermaid” — one of the studio’s most successful animated properties — individuals familiar with the project told TheWrap.
Miranda will be a producer with the prolific Marc Platt, who will deliver the film to Walt Disney Studios’ president of production Sean Bailey. Miranda will also consult on the story for the project with songwriter Alan Menken. A screenwriter has yet to be named.
“Hamilton” has been nothing short of a sensation thanks to its blockbuster ticket sales and a devout legion of fans comprised of theater natives, history buffs and hip-hop aficionados. It won 11 Tony Awards including Best Book and Best Musical for Miranda.
Disney is in the Miranda-hiring mood. He’ll appear on screen next in the studio’s sequel to “Mary Poppins,” which will star Emily Blunt and Meryl Streep.
The news was first reported by Deadline.