Billy Porter to play ‘genderless’ Fairy Godmother in ‘Cinderella’ remake
The actor has been breaking down gender barriers through his iconic fashion
By Steve Brown
Words: Steve Brown
Billy Porter reveals he will play the Fairy Godmother in the upcoming remake of Cinderella as ‘genderless’.
The Kinky Boots and Pose star has been cast in Sony’s reimagining of the classic fairytale as the Fairy Godmother who helps Cinderella find true love through magic – and those fabulous glass slippers.
Although the story has been adapted multiple times – most notably twice by Disney, one animated, one live-action – but this remake will mark the first time the Fairy Godmother will be played by a man.
And while speaking to CBS, Porter – who is one award away from having an EGOT – has revealed he will be playing the character genderless and said this version is ‘for a new generation’.
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He said: “It hit me when I was on the set last week how profound it is that I am playing the Fairy Godmother – they call it the Fab G.
“Magic has no gender. We are presenting this character as genderless – at least that’s how I’m playing it.
“And it’s really powerful. It’s going to be a classic fairytale for a new generation.
“I think the new generation is really ready. The kids are ready. It’s the grownups that are slowing stuff down.”
It was confirmed last year that Camila Cabello will play the titular role in the new movie and will also provide the music for the film, which will be directed by Kay Cannon.