If you grew-up in the 90’s and were a fan of the classic tales that came out of ‘The Wonderful World Of Disney’ anthologies – you would remember the highly anticipated television event that premiered a racially diverse version of ‘Cinderella’ to more than 60 million American households.
It has been 20 years since the Whitney Houston and Brandy starrer, TV classic hit the small screens and captured the hearts of millions, becoming a national event of sorts.
The 1997 released, Houston and Debra Martin-Chase produced remake, is scheduled to be screened on television again in the start of next month. Originally aired on ABC, the re-telecast of film is being facilitated by ‘Fuse’ – coinciding 2 decades since its first showing.
The made-for-television remake of the Rodgers & Hammerstein’s classic tale of love and magic, is adored for its diverse set of cast – which prominently featured a black Cinderella – played by RnB star, Brandy who falls in love with Prince Christopher – played by Asian actor – Paolo Montalban.
Houston played the role of a sassy and hilarious fairy godmother – also rendering her glorious set of pipes to two iconic melodies from the musical.
‘Cinderella’s premiere on November 2, 1997 – was as well-received by viewers as one could have hoped. The feature became one of the most watched television musical “in years” – and the #1 show of the week based on national television ratings.
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A star-studded multi-racial cast, including the likes of Whoopi Goldberg, Bernadette Peters, Jason Alexander, Victor Garber, Veanne Cox, Natalie Desselle, Montalban, Houston and Brandy – made for a thrilling experience, showcasing there was enough room for non-white characters in the fantasy world of Disney.
‘Cinderella’ eventually won an Emmy and an ‘Art Directors Guild Award’ for its exquisite production design and art direction.
Adding all of these factors, including the cultural significance of this bold remake of a half-century old classic – Houston and Brandy’s ‘Cinderella’ remains one of the greatest renditions of the tale, ever told.
Book your television sets for November 2nd and prepare yourself for a ride filled with nostalgia.