Embark on a journey to meet the talented actresses who brought your beloved Disney princesses to life.
From Cinderella to Moana, these iconic characters have been voiced by a diverse array of actresses over the years. Adriana Caselotti kicked off the tradition in 1937 as the voice of Snow White in “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs,” setting the stage for a long line of remarkable performances.
Ilene Woods enchanted audiences as Cinderella in 1950, while Mary Costa’s portrayal of Aurora in 1959’s “Sleeping Beauty” showcased her operatic talents. Jodi Benson’s memorable turn as Ariel in 1989’s “The Little Mermaid” remains a fan favorite, capturing hearts with her enchanting voice.
Paige O’Hara’s portrayal of Belle in 1991’s “Beauty and the Beast” and Linda Larkin’s performance as Jasmine in 1992’s “Aladdin” brought depth and charisma to their respective roles. Irene Bedard’s voice brought Pocahontas to life in 1995, while Ming-Na Wen’s portrayal of Mulan in 1998 broke new ground for Asian representation in animated films.
Anika Noni Rose made history as the voice of Tiana in 2009’s “The Princess and the Frog,” becoming the first Black Disney princess. Mandy Moore charmed audiences as Rapunzel in 2010’s “Tangled,” while Kelly Macdonald’s spirited performance as Merida in 2012’s “Brave” showcased her feisty energy.
Auli’i Cravalho’s debut as Moana in 2016 left a lasting impact, as did Kelly Marie Tran’s portrayal of Raya in 2021’s “Raya and the Last Dragon.” These actresses have brought depth, strength, and diversity to their roles, captivating audiences with their talent and charisma.
As we celebrate the legacy of Disney princesses, let’s also recognize the remarkable women who have lent their voices to these iconic characters, shaping the imaginations of generations to come.