Anika Noni Rose on Princess Tiana’s Legacy: Transforming Disney Parks and Inspiring Generations

A vibrant new chapter is dawning at Disney Parks, promising boundless blue skies and an abundance of sunshine as one of Disney’s most beloved princesses takes center stage. Early in 2023, a classic, albeit controversial, attraction at Walt Disney World Resort, Splash Mountain, officially closed its gates forever. This closure paved the way for an eagerly anticipated reimagined family adventure: Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, featuring the beloved Princess Tiana from the acclaimed animated movie, The Princess and The Frog. This monumental transformation, coupled with the exciting news that Disney+ has greenlit a brand-new series starring the studio’s first Black princess, means that the incredible voice behind Tiana, Anika Noni Rose, is poised for an exceptionally busy period. She will be reprising her iconic voice role for both the immersive new attraction and the upcoming streaming series, further cementing Tiana’s place in the hearts of fans worldwide.

The excitement surrounding these projects is palpable, representing a significant evolution in Disney storytelling and an expansion of representation within its beloved universe. Anika Noni Rose, a celebrated Tony Award-winning actress, has been instrumental in bringing Princess Tiana to life since the character’s debut in 2009. Her dedication to Tiana and the powerful message the princess embodies is evident in her enthusiasm for these new ventures. As Tiana steps into a more prominent role across Disney’s entertainment platforms, Anika Noni Rose continues to be the guiding voice, ensuring the character’s integrity and inspirational spirit shine through.

A New Era for Disney Parks: Tiana’s Bayou Adventure

The announcement of Splash Mountain’s re-theming into Tiana’s Bayou Adventure sparked widespread discussion and anticipation. For decades, Splash Mountain captivated guests with its iconic log flume drop, but its thematic origins in Disney’s problematic 1946 film, Song of the South, had long been a point of contention. The decision to reimagine the ride was met with overwhelming support from fans eager for a more inclusive and contemporary narrative. Tiana’s Bayou Adventure is set to open in late 2024 at both Walt Disney World Resort in Florida and Disneyland Park in California, promising a fresh, vibrant experience for all.

The new attraction will pick up Princess Tiana’s story where the movie left off, after she has achieved her dream of opening her own restaurant, Tiana’s Palace. Guests will join Tiana and her alligator friend Louis on a thrilling musical adventure through the enchanting Louisiana bayou, as they prepare for a one-of-a-kind Mardi Gras celebration. Imagineers have promised an immersive experience filled with vibrant new characters, original music inspired by the film’s beloved score, and the rich cultural tapestry of New Orleans. The transformation signifies more than just a new coat of paint; it’s a profound commitment to storytelling that reflects and celebrates diversity, while maintaining the thrilling elements that guests loved about the original ride.

Anika Noni Rose on Princess Tiana’s Enduring Legacy and Impact

As one might expect, the opportunity to further expand Princess Tiana’s story suits Anika Noni Rose perfectly. She beams with pride when discussing the profound legacy Tiana has cultivated within the Disney community and, indeed, across the globe. During an exclusive interview with HollywoodLife at The American Heart Association’s Go Red for Women Red Dress Collection Concert, Anika articulated the true essence of The Princess and The Frog’s lasting impact. “I think the true legacy [of Princess & The Frog] is the way that it has changed the way children look at themselves,” Anika shared passionately. “Specifically, young brown girls, and the way their friends take them in and what they think when they’re in their own little imagination. It has really expanded that and changed the way children can relate to each other, but most importantly, relate to themselves. Beautiful.”

Her words underscore the immense power of representation in media. Princess Tiana, with her unwavering work ethic, entrepreneurial spirit, and dreams that extend far beyond finding a prince, has served as a beacon of inspiration. She demonstrates that ambition, kindness, and self-belief are universal qualities, resonating deeply with children from all backgrounds. For young Black girls, Tiana offered a reflection of their own potential, showing them a princess who looks like them, dreams like them, and achieves her goals through resilience and hard work. This visibility fosters self-esteem and expands the realm of possibility in their minds, creating a ripple effect that extends beyond individual children to influence how peers perceive and interact with one another.

Voicing a Princess: The Art of Anika Noni Rose

It is this deep love and understanding for a character so many adore that compels Anika Noni Rose to remain commendably tight-lipped about the ongoing progress of the two major Tiana-centric projects. When pressed for details about the upcoming Disney+ series and the highly anticipated transformation of Splash Mountain into Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, Anika playfully demurred, teasing, “I can tell you nothing about Princess Tiana, and her current movements. So sorry.” This secrecy only heightens the anticipation among fans, eager for every new detail that will eventually emerge.

While the closing of Splash Mountain undoubtedly brought a tinge of sadness to some long-time fans who held nostalgic memories of the original ride, a far greater number are expressing immense excitement and relief. This opportunity, taken by Disney, allows for the permanent removal of the attraction’s troubling and racially insensitive backstory, paving the way for a more joyful and inclusive narrative that celebrates an iconic modern princess. Anika’s continued involvement ensures that Tiana’s authentic voice and spirit will guide these new storytelling endeavors, from the thrilling splashes of the bayou attraction to the episodic adventures on Disney+.

From Controversial Past to Celebrated Future: The Transformation of Splash Mountain

The original Splash Mountain attraction was conceptualized from elements of the 1946 musical film Song of the South. This particular film has not been made available by The Walt Disney Company in any form for more than 35 years due to its controversial depictions and perpetuation of harmful racial stereotypes. Its source material made it increasingly difficult for Disney to continue operating an attraction based on such problematic origins in a modern, inclusive theme park environment.

When Tiana’s Bayou Adventure officially reopens its gates in late 2024, all traces of Br’er Rabbit, Br’er Fox, Br’er Bear, and other animatronic characters from Song of the South will be gone. In their place, guests will be greeted by Princess Tiana, her charming musician alligator friend Louis, and an array of other beloved characters from The Princess and The Frog. The ride’s narrative will immerse guests in a vibrant story as Tiana and Louis prepare for their first-ever Mardi Gras performance, transforming the once-controversial ride into a celebration of culture, music, and the power of dreams. The transition reflects Disney’s ongoing commitment to evolve its storytelling to better reflect the diverse world we live in and ensure that all guests feel welcomed and celebrated. The closure marked an important moment in Disney’s history, signaling a move towards stories that champion positivity and inclusion. Fans who experienced the closing days even joked about leaving enough water in the log flume for the next chapter – a playful nod to the ride’s iconic splashdown that will undoubtedly continue to thrill guests in its new iteration.

Beyond the Bayou: Anika Noni Rose’s Advocacy for Heart Health

Anika Noni Rose’s influence extends beyond the magical realm of Disney princesses. She is also a passionate advocate for public health, particularly through her involvement with the American Heart Association’s Go Red for Women Red Dress Collection concert. This vital event made its return to New York City on February 1st at Lincoln Center, serving as a powerful platform to raise critical awareness about cardiovascular disease, which tragically remains the number one killer of women.

Anika’s commitment to this cause is deeply personal and rooted in a clear understanding of health disparities. “It is important for me to be here because Black women in particular have serious issues with heart health,” Anika emphasized. “We are very often underdiagnosed, and it is important for us to think about it, to talk about it, to be about it. So that we can save our own lives before it becomes something that is dire.” Her statement highlights a crucial public health issue: the disproportionate impact of cardiovascular disease on Black women, often due to a combination of systemic factors, access to care, and diagnostic biases. By lending her voice to campaigns like Go Red for Women, Anika Noni Rose actively works to empower women to prioritize their heart health, seek timely medical attention, and advocate for themselves, ultimately contributing to life-saving awareness and education.

Anika’s Personal Approach to Wellness

When asked about her own heart health regimen, Anika Noni Rose shared practical and relatable advice. “I am pretty regular with cardio,” she revealed, emphasizing the importance of consistent physical activity. “I’m not trying to run a marathon but I do walk a whole lot. And I like an elliptical.” This approach underscores that maintaining heart health doesn’t necessarily require intense, high-impact workouts but rather a commitment to regular, moderate activity that fits into one’s lifestyle. Walking, for instance, is an accessible and effective form of cardio that many can incorporate daily.

Beyond exercise, Anika is also mindful of her diet. “I don’t eat a whole lot of fried foods, though. I love french fries. But I’m just very aware of what I’m putting into my body and I try to be consistent.” This balanced perspective acknowledges that while indulgence is sometimes part of life (who doesn’t love french fries?), awareness and consistency in healthy eating habits are key. By making conscious choices about nutrition and integrating regular physical activity, Anika exemplifies a holistic approach to wellness, setting a positive example for her fans and beyond.

As Princess Tiana continues to inspire millions through thrilling new attractions and captivating series, Anika Noni Rose remains at the heart of her story. Her dedication not only breathes life into Tiana’s character but also shines through her tireless advocacy for critical health issues. With her voice and influence, Anika Noni Rose is not just shaping the future of a beloved Disney princess but also empowering communities and championing essential conversations for a healthier, more inclusive world.