Disney’s Live-Action Aladdin Casts Jafar and Reveals New Character

The remake will feature original songs by Alan Menken and Dear Evan Hansen songwriters Benj Pasek and Justin Paul.

Dutch actor Marwan Kenzari, who is set to appear in the upcoming Murder on the Orient Express, will take on the role of villainous sorcerer Jafar in Disney’s live-action remake of its 1992 animated musical Aladdin, according to the Hollywood Reporter.

It was also announced that former SNL cast member Nasim Pedrad will portray a new character that has been added especially for this all-new Aladdin.

Disney’s new Aladdin, directed by Guy Ritchie (Snatch, Sherlock Holmes), will star Mena Massoud as the title street urchin-turned-prince, Naomi Scott as Princess Jasmine, and Will Smith as the Genie.

The film will incorporate original songs from the film by Oscar winners Alan Menken, Tim Rice, and the late Howard Ashman, as well as new songs with music by Menken and lyrics by by Tony- and Academy Award-winning Dear Evan Hansen and La La Land songwriters Benj Pasek and Justin Paul.