Billy Porter will play a ‘powerful’ genderless fairy godmother in Cinderella and the alt-right must be shaking
Billy Porter’s tuxedo gown designed by Christian Siriano. (Christian Siriano/Twitter)
Billy Porter is set to play a genderless version of the fairy godmother in an upcoming live-action remake of Cinderella, due for release in 2021.
Speaking to CBS News, Porter said it is a “profound” feeling to be playing the iconic character of the Fairy Godmother in Cinderella.
“Magic has no gender,” he said.
“We are presenting this character as genderless – at least that’s how I’m playing it. And it’s really powerful.”
Billy Porter believes children are ‘ready’ for a genderless fairy godmother in the Cinderella remake.
The Pose actor added: “This is a classic fairytale for a new generation, and I think that the new generation is really ready. The kids are ready. It’s the grown-ups that are slowing stuff down.”
Porter shared the interview on Twitter and wrote: “This Cinderella is a classic fairytale for a new generation. To be able to play this genderless, fabulous fairy godmother – what a gift.”
This Cinderella is a classic fairytale for a new generation. To be able to play this genderless, fabulous fairy godmother – what a gift. Thank you @CBSNews for sitting down with me and catching up about the role❤️ https://t.co/PgVwnhdthI pic.twitter.com/DZNBmRS3CK
— Billy Porter (@theebillyporter) March 3, 2020
The upcoming Cinderella is being made by Sony and will also star pop star Camila Cabello and is directed by Key Cannon. The project is being described as a “romantic musical comedy”.
We are presenting this character as genderless – at least that’s how I’m playing it. And it’s really powerful.
It will also star Idina Menzel of Wicked fame as the evil stepmother and Pierce Brosnan as the king. We can only hope he gets an opportunity to show off his incredible singing voice once again.
Porter has become a powerhouse in the LGBT+ community for his groundbreaking role on FX series Pose as well as for his incredible red-carpet looks.
Porter recently came under fire for his appearance on Sesame Street from conservatives.
The actor has also fought anti-LGBT+ discrimination at every turn. He recently faced backlash after it was announced that he would be guest starring on the upcoming season of Sesame Street in his iconic tuxedo dress.
Conservative Christian group One Million Moms started a petition to have his guest appearance cancelled, and Porter responded in the best possible way.
In a lengthy Instagram post, the actor said his slot on Sesame Street was one of the “highlights” of his life.
“The emails, DMs, and messages of good will I received that day (and continue to receive) from parents and their children who have been bullied all over the world and desperately need to see someone like me, being their authentic selves on mainstream media, is far more important than anything #onemillionmoms could ever say.
“Friendship, kindness and inclusivity shall triumph. And often, it simply starts by saying hi,” he added.
