No one’s slick as Gaston. No one’s quick as Gaston. And apparently, no one’s getting away from Gaston anytime soon.
Disney is developing a brand-new live-action movie based on the hunter and village hero obsessed with Belle, giving the muscular Beauty and the Beast antagonist another chance to strut, flex, and remind everyone within earshot that he is, in fact, very good at being the center of attention.
And yes, we have casting thoughts.
READ: Gaston Without Luke Evans? We’re Listening, But Skeptical
Gaston Was More Than a Handsome Villain
Let’s be honest: Gaston was never exactly a model of emotional maturity.
He’s narcissistic, arrogant, selfish, misogynistic and spectacularly convinced that everyone should be obsessed with him. Yet there’s another interpretation of the character that’s worth considering.
One Reddit user argued that Gaston wasn’t necessarily arrogant so much as genuinely confident, pointing out that the villagers appeared to adore him despite seemingly knowing exactly what he was like.
It’s an interesting read.
Gaston wasn’t secretly charming. He was openly Gaston, and somehow everyone still wanted him around.
That’s a talent.
Luke Evans Made Him Fun
Luke Evans brought an especially entertaining quality to Gaston in the 2017 live-action Beauty and the Beast. His version was physically imposing but also playful, charismatic, and wonderfully campy in all the right places. Unfortunately for Evans fans, and for us, he’s not expected to return for Disney’s new project.
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According to Deadline, the studio is developing a new live-action Gaston movie that has been described as “swashbuckling” and is expected to take the character in a new direction. The project is reportedly high on Disney’s list, but the role is being recast. And that’s where things get interesting.
Glen Powell? Sure. But Hear Us Out
Former Hollywood trade reporter turned blogger Jeff Sneider has reported that Glen Powell is being eyed for the role. Honestly? We see it.
Powell has the movie-star charm, the physique and the ability to play a confident guy who knows exactly how handsome he is without completely losing the audience.
But we’re throwing two more names into the enchanted casting hat.
First Up: Zane Phillips.
You may remember him from Fire Island, but Phillips has continued developing both his acting range and his physique since then. With a B.F.A. in Musical Theater from Elon University, he also has the theatrical background to handle Gaston’s larger-than-life musical personality.
And then there’s his comedic timing.
Gaston needs someone who can make ridiculousness look effortless.
Phillips could absolutely do that.
Or Give Us Alan Ritchson
Then there’s Alan Ritchson.
Yes, we know. Your brain immediately went to Reacher.
But that’s exactly why we’re interested.
Ritchson has the size and rugged presence required for the village’s hero, but he’s also demonstrated that he can be funny and charming when given the opportunity. His work across projects including Playdate and Smallville, where he played Aquaman, proves he’s not confined to serious action roles.
The character shouldn’t simply be a handsome guy with enormous biceps.
He needs personality.
He needs comedy.
He needs swagger.
He needs to walk into a room like the room should be grateful.
And, preferably, he needs to make us understand why the entire village was singing about him.
Disney, the casting ball is in your court.