Josh Gad Reveals His Disney Sequel Is Dead Reveal
by Aishwarya R
Updated Jun 28, 2023
Josh Gad Reveals His Disney Sequel is Dead Reveal
Josh Gad, known for his role as the voice of Olaf in Frozen, was once seen as a valuable asset for the Walt Disney Company. However, it appears that his position has shifted in recent times. Gad recently took to Twitter to reveal that his long-awaited legacy sequel to the Honey I Shrunk the Kids franchise is facing significant obstacles. He explained that the project was on the verge of starting production on multiple occasions, but was thwarted by the impact of COVID-19, scheduling conflicts, and budgetary constraints.
In an effort to gauge fan interest, Gad encouraged his followers to express their desire for the film to Disney through their local channels. Back in 2018, Disney Plus announced plans to produce remakes and legacy sequels to beloved IPs as exclusive content, including Honey I Shrunk the Kids. The intended concept for the Disney Plus series involved Gad portraying Nick Szalinski, the grown-up son of the scientist character previously played by Rick Moranis and Robert Oliveri.
While specific plot details were scarce, it was likely that Gad's character would be involved in some science-related experiments that would result in people shrinking or growing to unexpected sizes. Initial reports indicated that Rick Moranis, who had largely retired from acting, would come out of retirement for the Disney Plus series, and director Joe Johnston was set to return. However, it seems these plans have since been abandoned.
The LeFou & Gaston Disney Plus Series
This isn't the first time Disney has canceled a project featuring Josh Gad. After his appearance as LeFou in the live-action remake of Beauty and the Beast (2017), plans were announced for a Disney Plus series focused on the characters of LeFou and Gaston. The project gained significant attention, with casting announcements including Rita Ora, Sharon D. Clarke, Jelani Alladin, and Fra Fee. Additionally, Gad was set to serve as a showrunner alongside Eddy Kitsis and Adam Horowitz.
Unfortunately, in 2022, the LeFou & Gaston spinoff series was abruptly postponed indefinitely, which is usually a diplomatic way of saying it was canceled. If fans are reaching out to Disney regarding the Honey I Shrunk the Kids series starring Josh Gad, they might as well mention their interest in the LeFou & Gaston project too. While Gad continues to thrive as the voice of Olaf in the Frozen franchise, it appears that his potential involvement in other Disney projects has faced significant setbacks and cancellations in recent years.
Josh Gad Role in Disney
Josh Gad, known for his roles in Frozen and Beauty and the Beast, has joined the cast of the upcoming Disney+ TV show Wonder Man in an undisclosed role. According to Jeff Sneider of Above the Line's The Hot Mic podcast, Gad's character has not been specified yet, but co-host John Rocha suggested the possibility of Gad playing the agent of Yahya Abdul-Mateen II's Simon Williams.
Gad is widely recognized for his portrayal of Olaf the snowman in the hit Disney animated film Frozen. He has also appeared in various popular films and TV series, including Disney's live-action Beauty and the Beast, Murder on the Orient Express, Ghostbusters: Afterlife, and more. Gad's next project is a starring role in the animated comedy film Strays, set to release in 2023.
The Wonder Man series is being developed by Destin Daniel Cretton, the director of Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings, and writer-producer Andrew Guest, known for their work on Brooklyn Nine-Nine and Community. Guest serves as the head writer, while Cretton is an executive producer and will direct some episodes. The series is part of Cretton's overall deal with the studio. Additionally, filmmaker Stella Meghie, known for The Photograph, will direct multiple episodes.
Yahya Abdul-Mateen II, an Emmy winner, leads the Wonder Man cast as Simon Williams/Wonder Man. The cast also includes Demetrius Grosse as Eric Williams/Grim Reaper, Ben Kingsley as Trevor Slattery, Ed Harris as Neal Saroyan, Lauren Glazier, and Josh Gad.
Wonder Man, one of Marvel's oldest characters, was first introduced in 1964 in an early issue of Avengers. Created by Stan Lee, Don Heck, and Jack Kirby, the character initially appeared as a supervillain who battled the Avengers. However, he later became a hero and joined the Avengers in various iterations of the team. Empowered with "ionic" energy by Baron Zemo, Wonder Man possesses enhanced strength, speed, stamina, durability, reflexes, and agility similar to other superheroes.
About Josh Gad
Josh Gad is the incredible American actor, has graced our screens and captured our hearts with his extraordinary talent. With a voice as warm and endearing as the characters he portrays, he has become a beloved figure in the world of entertainment. Gad's voice brings life to the adorable snowman Olaf in the enchanting Frozen franchise, melting our hearts with his infectious charm.
His portrayal of Elder Arnold Cunningham in the Broadway musical The Book of Mormon showcased his versatility and undeniable stage presence, earning him accolades and admiration from audiences around the globe. In Disney's live-action adaptation of Beauty and the Beast, Gad brought the lovable and slightly eccentric Le Fou to life, infusing the character with a delightful blend of humor and heart. His performance was nothing short of magical, leaving an indelible mark on the minds of fans young and old.
But Gad's talent extends far beyond the realm of animation and musical theater. He has graced both the big and small screens with his magnetic presence, delivering captivating performances that leave a lasting impact. From his role as Skip Gilchrist in the political sitcom 1600 Penn to his brilliant portrayal of a fictionalized version of himself in The Comedians, alongside the legendary Billy Crystal, Gad's comedic timing and genuine charisma shine through.
His filmography is a testament to his versatility, effortlessly transitioning from heartfelt dramas like Marshall to hilarious comedies such as The Wedding Ringer. Gad's ability to captivate audiences knows no bounds, as he seamlessly brings to life a wide range of characters, from quirky sidekicks to lovable leading men. In every project he undertakes, Gad leaves an indelible mark, capturing our imaginations and reminding us of the transformative power of storytelling.
Whether he's delivering uproarious laughter or tugging at our heartstrings, his passion for his craft shines through in every performance. Josh Gad is a true embodiment of the magic of entertainment, a beacon of talent, and an artist who continually pushes the boundaries of his craft. With his infectious energy and undeniable charm, he has become a cherished figure in the hearts of fans worldwide.
Josh Gad Reveals His Disney Sequel is Dead Reveal - FAQs
Josh Gad revealed that he was working on a long-in-development legacy sequel to the Honey I Shrunk the Kids franchise.
According to Gad, the project faced obstacles such as the impact of COVID-19, scheduling conflicts, and budgetary constraints, which ultimately led to its demise.
The original plan was for Josh Gad to portray Nick Szalinski, the grown-up son of the scientist character previously played by Rick Moranis. The series would explore Gad's character's experiments with science-based devices that could shrink or enlarge objects and people.
There were reports that Rick Moranis, who had largely retired from acting, would come out of retirement to reprise his role in the Disney Plus series. However, it appears that these plans did not come to fruition.
Yes, it's not the first time that Disney has canceled a project featuring Josh Gad. The Beauty and the Beast spinoff series focused on Gad's character, LeFou, was also abruptly postponed indefinitely, adding to a pattern of setbacks and cancellations for Gad's potential Disney projects.