Tiana — Based on Anika Noni Rose
The Princess and the Frog marked a significant milestone in Disney’s history, introducing the first African-American princess to its animated films. The talented actress Anika Noni Rose, who provided her voice and served as an inspiration for the character, brought Tiana, the film’s lead, to life.
When asked about her thoughts on the striking resemblance between Tiana and herself, Anika Noni Rose expressed her astonishment, saying, “I had no idea that Tiana was going to look as much like me as she did, and I was mind-blown.” The uncanny similarity between the character and the actress who portrayed her added a unique dimension to the film and resonated with audiences.
