Aladdin: Will Smith in Talks to Play Genie

Negotiations are still in the early stages.

By Alex Gilyadov

Disney wants Will Smith to play the Genie in its upcoming live-action remake of Aladdin.

According to Deadline, Smith is currently in early negotiations with the studio to play the iconic character, who was originally voiced by Robin William in the animated movies.

Considering the rapper-turned-actor's strong musical background, Smith would presumably be a good fit for the film, which, much like Disney's live-action remake of Beauty and the Beast, will also be a musical.

Smith was also in talks to star in Tim Burton's live-action Dumbo remake before the deal fell through over salary and scheduling issues. He was set to portray the father of the children who befriend the titular elephant.

Disney is currently holding an open casting call for the main roles of Aladdin and Jasmine. Director Guy Ritchie has no intention of whitewashing the remake, and as such is specifically looking for Middle Eastern actors in the 18 to 25 age range. Filming will take place from July 2017 to January 2018, but a release date has not yet been set.

Disney's latest live-action remake to hit theaters, Beauty and the Beast, recently reached a huge milestone, being the first film in 2017 to cross $1 billion at the worldwide box office. It's also now the highest-grossing live-action musical of all time.

Alex Gilyadov is a freelance writer for IGN. You can follow him on Twitter. 

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