Janelle Monáe Joins Disney’s Live-Action Lady and the Tramp
Singer-songwriter and actor Janelle Monáe, known for her roles in Moonlight and Hidden Figures, has been confirmed as part of the cast for Disney’s upcoming live-action remake of Lady and the Tramp. Monáe will portray Peg, the pound dog from the original story, in a supporting role that adds a fresh voice to this classic tale.
Janelle Monáe in Hidden Figures (left) and Peg from the 1955 animated Lady and the Tramp
The live-action production will feature Tessa Thompson as Lady and Justin Theroux as the Tramp. Both actors bring distinct screen presences to these iconic canine roles, with Thompson taking the lead as the gentle, well-bred Lady and Theroux portraying the streetwise Tramp.
Joining the cast as Bull, the English bulldog, is Benedict Wong, whose film résumé includes notable genre and blockbuster projects. Wong’s casting rounds out a diverse ensemble of performers lending their voices and performances to this new interpretation of the beloved 1955 film.
Directing the live-action remake is Charlie Bean, known for his work on animated features such as The Lego Ninjago Movie. The screenplay has been penned by Andrew Bujalski, bringing his voice to the adaptation. The creative team signals Disney’s intention to blend contemporary filmmaking sensibilities with the charm of the original animated story.
Disney has slated the film to debut on its upcoming streaming service that was planned for 2019. While the studio has announced the project and its principal cast, there is currently no confirmed release date. Production details, marketing plans and a firm release timeline will be announced by Disney when available.
Janelle Monáe’s involvement continues a pattern of high-profile musicians and multi-talented artists transitioning into significant film roles. Her acting credits, including supporting and critically praised performances, have helped establish her as a versatile performer capable of balancing music and dramatic work. Taking on the role of Peg provides Monáe with another opportunity to expand her acting portfolio within a family-oriented, mainstream title.
The choice to revisit Lady and the Tramp in live-action follows a broader trend at Disney of reimagining animated classics for modern audiences. These remakes typically aim to honor the original narratives while updating dialogue, casting and production values to resonate with contemporary viewers. The live-action format allows filmmakers to explore character detail, production design and new interpretive choices that differ from the animated source.
For fans of the original 1955 film, Peg is a memorable supporting character, and casting Monáe suggests the production will highlight both character personality and vocal performance. With Tessa Thompson and Justin Theroux in the lead roles, and Benedict Wong contributing as Bull, the cast brings a mix of dramatic, comedic and genre experience.
As further information becomes available—casting additions, production milestones, trailers and an official release date—Disney will likely share updates through its standard promotional channels. Until then, audiences can anticipate a contemporary take on a classic canine romance that aims to blend nostalgia with fresh performances and modern filmmaking techniques.