The First Black Cinderella is still one of the most exciting things to ever happen in fairytale history. For the first time young black ladies were able to see themselves as beautiful, deserving, worthy of true love and a gorgeous happily ever after! Truly Positivity unlocked.
However, this achievement in entertainment and story is no small feat because it took a very LONG TIME to come to fruition. Seriously, take a look at Disney. How many pretty brown princesses are there?
Exactly. Nevertheless, two black actresses stepped up to the plate and straight up delivered. Thanks to them television, movies and Broadway will never be the same. Let’s get into the historic roles of the first black Cinderella played by both Brandy and Keke Palmer!
First Black Cinderella- Played by Black Beauties Brandy and Keke Palmer
When you think black Cinderella your mind probably thinks BRANDY. And honey you would be right, but really we have to recognize two talents to be entirely accurate.
You see Brandy was the very first black woman to get and play the role of the mistreated stepdaughter whose Fairy Godmother helps her nab a bonafide hot prince. Her turn as Cindy took place back in 1997 in Rodgers and Hammerstein’s version of the tragic yet romantic tale. The television film also starred Whoopi Goldberg, Victor Garber as well as the late hilarious Natalie Desselle (remember BAPS?) and iconic Whitney Houston.
While some criticized the diverse casting, the movie still went on to become a cult classic. With many fans of the musical in more recent times protesting for Disney to add it to the Disney Plus lineup. The fans spoke, Disney heard and now new generations can experience the magic for themselves via streaming!
Brandy had been the perfect candidate to break the mold for the role due to her past successes (a CoverGirl Makeup contract; plus a hit 90’s television show Moesha and music career with sophomore album Never Say Never, featuring two number one singles, and earning Brandy Norwood her first Grammy Award); as well as cross over appeal. Little girls of all races absolutely loved Brandy, making her a “safe” bet and popular choice to play Cinderella.
With a budget of $12 million ABC network dreamt up and executed one of the best retellings of the Cinderella saga. Kudos to the fearless executives who made it happen and to Brandy who’s grace and groundbreaking talent helped to break down race barriers in Hollywood enabling finally… the birth of a fairytale black princess!
While the black community could certainly celebrate and enjoy seeing black positive imagery on the small screen. There would come to be even more accolades on the stage. How?
There Would Still Come to Be Another!
Well, the Cinderella story would again be told, however, this time of Broadway. Who would play the lead role? Also, would another black Cinderella be seen once more?
The answer to the latter would be yes. And the gorgeous young woman who would get the honor of playing Cinderella would be the fabulous Keke Palmer! Palmer fit the role of a young beautiful maiden who eventually loses a glass shoe and gets scoped out by a fine prince.
Keke had been met with success and much accolades from the Hollywood community due to her undeniable beauty; as well as exquisite acting in Akeelah and the Bee. Moreover, while her acting was indeed noteworthy; in time it became apparent that her singing chops were just as amazing! Thus, making her a fabulous choice to be a Broadway superstar.
Additionally, Palmer is use to making her mark in history. She became the youngest talk show host ever with her tv show, Just Keke. She also starred on the wildly popular Nickelodeon show, True Jackson VP. Gaining fans who would grow up to love and adore her throughout her career.
Nevertheless, Palmer’s groundbreaking tenure as Cinderella began in September 2014 as Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Cinderella story hit the Broadway stage. Keke Palmer became the first black woman to play the role on stage and was met with rave reviews.
The First Black Cinderella and a FIRST of Our Own!
Alrighty, well there you have it. Another beautiful piece of black history put within the puzzle and big picture of black excellence. There are many other facts and stories to tell and we can’t wait to bring them to you!
We are excited to reveal that there will now be a dedicated section for JUST black history! As a people our achievements can not be contained in one small month. There is way too much to know and learn.
If you were blown away by Hidden Figures, then just wait till you hear about all the inventions, adventures and achievements brown people in the past have had. It’s going to be great to tell their stories. And we hope you absolutely love it too!
Like Cinderella, throughout time there’s been a lot of “firsts.” Moreover, there are also talents like Brandy Norwood and Keke Palmer who push the industry ahead making the impossible… possible. So never stop dreaming you guys, and never stop achieving. Who knows, maybe one day we will have the wonderful honor of writing your brilliant story up too for all to reflect upon and enjoy!
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