Disney is preparing for a magical holiday season as the studio officially announced that Jodie Foster and Walton Goggins have joined the voice cast of the upcoming animated feature Hexed. The news was shared during the D23 event, confirming that both actors will lend their talents to the fantasy adventure alongside lead star Hailee Steinfeld.
The film follows an awkward teenage girl and her mother who discover that the teen possesses hidden magical abilities. This revelation leads them into a secret magical realm where they must navigate a world filled with witches. The project is directed by Jason Hand, Josie Trinidad, and Fawn Veerasunthorn, and it is currently scheduled to hit theaters on November 25, just in time for the Thanksgiving holiday corridor.
Adding Foster and Goggins to the production highlights Disney’s commitment to building a strong ensemble for this new fantasy world. The inclusion of such distinct acting talent suggests the studio is aiming for a blend of high-stakes drama and eccentric character work, which should provide a unique flavor to the film’s magical narrative.
Villains and Sidekicks
Jodie Foster is set to voice Queen Celeste, the primary witch villain of the story. This role marks a significant milestone for the Oscar-winning actress, who noted during the D23 presentation that she has never voiced a character in a Disney film before. While she appeared in live-action classics like Candleshoe and Freaky Friday earlier in her career, this animated project represents a fresh creative direction for her.
Walton Goggins is taking on a much more unconventional role as a three-eyed green cat named Beef Roger. The character, who sports a pink coat, serves as a witch’s sidekick before eventually befriending the teenage protagonist. Goggins expressed enthusiasm for the role, which promises to be a standout performance in the film.
A Growing Magical Ensemble
Beyond the new additions, the film features an extensive supporting cast. The voice lineup includes Alan Tudyk, Rashida Jones, Stephen Fry, CeeLo Green, and Tracey Ullman. This collection of performers adds significant depth to the project, ensuring that the magical realm feels populated by a wide variety of personalities.
By positioning the release for the Wednesday before Thanksgiving, Disney is following a proven strategy for its animated features. This release window has historically served the studio well, allowing films to build momentum throughout the holiday weekend. With a talented cast and a premise centered on self-discovery and hidden powers, the studio appears to be positioning the film as a major event for families this November.
Source: Geek Tyrant
