In a fascinating revelation during a recent episode of the “Magical Rewind” podcast, former VP of Casting and Talent Relations at Disney Channel, Cornelia Frame, spilled the beans on an intriguing piece of Disney history. Renowned star Zendaya auditioned multiple times for a role in the beloved Disney Channel franchise, Descendants, but ultimately didn’t land the part.

Cornelia shared, “Zendaya did audition many times for Descendants, and that was a big deal. She auditioned over and over and really wanted it. It just ended up not going her way.” The Descendants series, for those who might not know, revolves around the lives of the offspring of Disney’s most famous heroes and villains, navigating a world where people must decide if others can truly change for the better.

At the time Zendaya was auditioning, she was already making waves with her starring role on Disney Channel’s K.C. Undercover and had just featured in the Disney Channel Original Movie, Zapped. Despite putting in immense effort, Cornelia pointed out that the path Zendaya ended up taking was quite fortuitous. Had she secured a role in Descendants, she might not have been able to debut in the Marvel Cinematic Universe alongside Tom Holland in Spider-Man: Homecoming in 2017.

Cornelia reflected, “Now that I think about it, I’m like, ‘Would Spider-Man have happened right at that same time?’ Things happen for a reason, and you do often book this other thing that’s amazing when you don’t get something else.” Indeed, Zendaya’s portrayal of Michelle, aka MJ, has become iconic, endearing her to a new legion of fans.

While the specific role Zendaya auditioned for in Descendants wasn’t disclosed, fans can explore more by tuning into the full episode of Magical Rewind. Plus, don’t miss Descendants: The Rise of Red, the latest addition to the franchise, available now on Disney Channel and streaming on Disney+.

Share your thoughts on Zendaya’s journey and this intriguing piece of Disney trivia in the comments below! Engage with fellow fans and let us know what you think.

Source: Morgan Murrell