According to Broadway.com, Lin-Manuel Miranda is joining the cast of Disney’s new Mary Poppins film. Miranda made his way into the hearts of homes across America after his most recent success in 2015’s Broadway sensation “Hamilton.” This casting news comes as Disney is currently working on one of their next animated features Moana… who Miranda is coincidentally writing songs for.
Despite winning Tony and Grammy Awards as well as a Pulitzer prize, Miranda’s part in this classic reboot will not be portraying Bert… but instead taking on the role of Jack, a lamplighter. With today’s announcement, the cast number is now up to two actors. Emily Blunt, will be playing the famous nanny as she reunites with Director Rob Marshall and Producers John DeLuca & Marc Platt. These four last worked together when putting together the Disney musical Into The Woods. Now, they look to make some big screen magic once again.
This movie is not believed to a sequel or a “re-make”… but more of a re-interpretation of the P.L. Travers’ book. With much still up in the air, and little details revealed.. I think it’s safe to say we could see some other Travers’ fairytales tied into this film. It also isn’t out of the question to assume new songs will be in the works with what is already a strong, musically talented cast.
Emily Blunt is in talks to star in Disney’s reboot of Mary Poppins with Rob Marshall set to direct.
John DeLuca and Marc Platt will serve as producers on the pic. Sources say Blunt has always been the favorite since all four worked together on Into the Woods. With Disney looking to get the film into production soon, the studio recently met with the actress to discuss the idea of playing the magical nanny. There is no word yet on when production will start, or when it’s expected to hit theaters.