Bette Midler to Voice Fairy Godmother in Netflix’s Animated Cinderella Movie ‘Steps

Bette Midler is stepping into a magical new role, bringing her legendary wit and warmth to Netflix’s upcoming animated feature, Steps. The iconic performer has been tapped to voice the Fairy Godmother in this highly anticipated reimagining of the classic Cinderella fairy tale. This project marks a significant milestone for the streaming giant, as it serves as the first fully in-house produced film from Netflix Animation Studios, signaling the company’s deepening commitment to original feature-length animation.

The casting of Midler adds a layer of seasoned star power to an already impressive ensemble. She joins a vibrant cast that includes Ali Wong, who is set to voice the character of Lilith, and Amanda Seyfried, who will voice the protagonist. By putting a fresh, animated spin on a story that has been told countless times in live-action and traditional cartoons, Steps aims to subvert audience expectations while retaining the heart of the original folklore.

A Fresh Perspective on a Timeless Tale

While the traditional narrative of Cinderella has centered on a young woman’s transformation and her path to royalty, Steps shifts the focus toward the perspectives of the infamous stepsisters. The story follows two sisters whose chances at marriage—and, by extension, their social standing—are thwarted by their mother’s expectations. Their journey toward self-discovery and finding their own paths, rather than waiting for a prince to save them, provides the core emotional arc of the film.

The creative direction is being steered by director Alyce Tzue, known for her work on the short film Soar. By focusing on the “steps” sisters, the studio is leaning into a modern trend of exploring the “villains” or supporting characters of classic stories, a narrative device that has resonated strongly with contemporary animation audiences. This approach allows for a broader range of comedic and dramatic beats, perfectly suited for a talent like Bette Midler, whose career has spanned decades of genre-defying performances.

The Rise of Netflix Animation Studios

The production of Steps is a strategic move for Netflix, which has been steadily building its internal animation division to compete with major players like Disney, and DreamWorks. Moving from licensing and co-production to fully in-house development allows the studio greater control over its intellectual property and the creative pipeline. As reported by Netflix’s own corporate communications, the studio has been aggressively recruiting veteran animators and creative executives to bolster its slate of original family entertainment.

For fans of Bette Midler, this role is a natural fit. Known for her distinctively sharp comedic timing and powerful vocal performances in films like Hocus Pocus and The First Wives Club, Midler brings a gravitas that is often required for a modern interpretation of a magical mentor figure. Her involvement suggests that the Fairy Godmother in Steps will likely be less of a passive background character and more of an active, perhaps slightly unpredictable, participant in the sisters’ lives.

What Lies Ahead for ‘Steps’

As the project continues through the various stages of animation—from storyboarding and character design to final rendering—Netflix has kept specific plot details tightly under wraps. However, the confirmed involvement of high-profile talent suggests that the studio is positioning Steps as a tentpole release. The integration of established stars like Midler, Wong, and Seyfried is a clear indicator that Netflix is prioritizing character-driven storytelling to distinguish its animation wing from the industry status quo.

While an official release date has not been finalized, the industry continues to monitor updates from the studio’s official Netflix Newsroom for announcements regarding production progress, potential trailers, and premiere windows. As the film nears completion, viewers can expect more teasers that highlight the evolving visual style of this unique take on the Cinderella mythos.

We will continue to provide updates as new details emerge regarding the production schedule and additional casting announcements. Have a thought on this fresh take on a classic fairy tale? Share your excitement in the comments below, and be sure to check back for the latest developments from the world of entertainment.