'Beauty and the Beast' Live-Action Series: Everything We Know So Far

THR reports that neither Watson nor Dan Stevens are attached, but “sources say there is a possibility that they could pop in for a guest spot.” However, since the plot takes place well before their characters met, it does seem a bit unlikely.

The new characters. Variety reports that Briana Middleton will join the show as Tilly, LeFou's stepsister, and also that LeFou's first name is Louie. Who knew!

The creative team. Gad will also serve as one of the showrunners, alongside Once Upon a Time creators Eddy Kitsis and Adam Horowitz. Composer Alan Menken, who did the music for the iconic 1991 animated film, is also on board for the series. And Glenn Slater, who collaborated with Menken on the short-lived but underrated musical fairy-tale series Galavant, will write the first episode's lyrics.

The plot. The series is still in the early stages of development but THR sources say it “will take place well before the events of the film and also expand the Beauty and the Beast universe.” Variety further reports that the series kicks off when “a surprising revelation from [Tilly's] past comes to light, sending the trio off on an unexpected journey. While the mysteries of the past are uncovered and the dangers of the present grow, old friends and new enemies reveal that this familiar kingdom harbors many secrets.”

“For anyone who’s ever wondered how a brute like Gaston and a goof like LeFou could have ever become friends and partners, or how a mystical enchantress came to cast that fateful spell on the prince-turned-beast, this series will finally provide those answers…and provoke a whole new set of questions,” said Gary Marsh, president and chief creative officer of Disney Branded Television.

The release date. No timeframe has been set yet for the premiere—but we cannot wait. Production will begin in spring 2022.

This post will be updated as more information about the Beauty and the Beast series becomes available.