Anika Noni Rose Speaks Out After Disney Abruptly Cancels ‘Tiana’ Series

Disney’s decision to scrap the highly anticipated Tiana animated series has left fans dismayed, but perhaps no one is more disappointed than Anika Noni Rose, the iconic voice behind Princess Tiana. In a statement addressing the cancellation, Rose expressed both heartbreak and determination, urging fans to rally behind the upcoming Tiana Special Event as a way to demonstrate their continued love for the beloved character.

A Dream Cut Short: The Cancellation of Tiana

The Tiana series was first announced in 2020 as part of Disney’s expanding slate of content for Disney Plus. The show was meant to follow the adventures of Princess Tiana after the events of The Princess and the Frog, offering a deeper exploration of her life as a business owner and leader in the kingdom of Maldonia. Fans eagerly awaited the project, especially given the film’s lasting impact as the first Disney animated movie to feature a Black princess.

However, in a shocking move, Disney recently confirmed that the series had been scrapped while still in production. Instead of the long-form series, the company now plans to release a Tiana Special Event, a shorter project that will serve as a limited continuation of the character’s story.

Anika Noni Rose’s Heartfelt Response

Following the announcement, Anika Noni Rose took to Instagram to directly address fans, sharing her profound disappointment over the cancellation.

“I too am deeply disappointed that the continuation of Tiana’s journey in series form has been cut short,” Rose wrote. “The series was a long time coming, and a lot of beautiful work was put into it by all of the creatives involved.”

She went on to acknowledge key figures behind the project, including writer and director Joyce Sherri and Disney Animation’s Jennifer Lee, who had championed the series from the beginning.

While Rose made it clear that she was devastated by the decision, she urged fans to turn their frustration into action. “My hope is that when what is now to be a Tiana Special Event airs, that all of you beautiful, loving, loyal fans who’ve been championing not just the series but a Princess and the Frog sequel, tune in.”

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Why Disney Scrapped Tiana

Disney’s decision to cancel Tiana aligns with the company’s broader strategy shift away from producing long-form streaming content. In an effort to cut costs and refocus on theatrical releases, Disney has been reevaluating projects across its platforms.

This isn’t the first time a planned Disney Plus series has been scrapped in favor of a shorter special. The Moana series was also reworked into a theatrical sequel, which has already proven to be a major box office success.

According to insiders, Disney’s shifting priorities are driven by financial concerns, as well as a desire to maximize the impact of its flagship properties. However, the abrupt cancellation of Tiana raises questions about the studio’s commitment to expanding the stories of its diverse characters beyond one-off films.

Fans Are Not Letting This Go

The backlash following the cancellation has been swift. Fans, especially those who have long pushed for more representation in Disney’s animated projects, see this decision as a major letdown.

Many took to social media to voice their frustration, with hashtags like #JusticeForTiana and #TianaDeservedBetter gaining traction. Supporters are calling on Disney to reconsider its decision and fully invest in the character’s future.

Despite the disappointment, Anika Noni Rose remains hopeful that fan enthusiasm could still make a difference. In her statement, she urged supporters to make their voices heard through action.

“When I say tune in, I mean tell your friends, family, coworkers, babysitters—tell all the people you know who have loved Princess Tiana, Naveen, Louis, Charlotte, Mama Odie, and the magic they’ve created together over the years. Show your love and your desire in the numbers.”

What’s Next for Princess Tiana?

Even though the Tiana series is no longer moving forward, the character’s legacy remains strong. The Tiana Special Event will still be released, though details on its length and content remain scarce.

Beyond the screen, Tiana continues to be a major presence in Disney’s theme parks. Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, the long-awaited attraction replacing Splash Mountain, officially opened in June 2024, immersing visitors in the music, culture, and magic of the Louisiana bayou.

Anika Noni Rose closed her statement by thanking fans for their unwavering support. “I thank you all from the bottom of my heart for the love you have shown, for every #TianaTuesday, for every #Disneybound, for every one of you who has lifted my heart in this space over the years and made it possible for Princess Tiana to still be such a vibrant, impactful presence.”

Though the Tiana series may not have come to fruition as planned, one thing is clear: Princess Tiana is here to stay, and her fans aren’t letting Disney forget it.