RUMOR: ‘Shazam!’ Star Mark Strong Joins ‘Cruella’ As Villain’s Father

Disney’s live-action films have garnered several billion dollars over the last few years. Projects like The Lion King and Aladdin have been commercial and critical successes for the studio. However, the Angelina Jolie starring Maleficent franchise provided a new look at the origin and motivations of the iconic Sleeping Beauty villain.

In that same vein, the upcoming 2021 film Cruella will bring Cruella de Vil’s origin to life. Starring Emma Stone as the fur-obsessed 101 Dalmatians villain, the film will be set in early 1970s London. In a new report from TheDisInsider, Mark Strong is rumored to play Cruella’s father, The Baron. Additionally, the report claims the character is “said to have a kind heart and is a good person.”

Previously, Emma Thompson joined the cast as The Baroness, Cruella’s mother. Moreover, Paul Walter Hauser and Joel Fry will play henchmen Horace and Jasper.

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Stone will portray de Vil as a young fashion designer as she develops her obsession with dalmatian fur. Glenn Close, who played the character in Disney’s 1996 live-action 101 Dalmatians will executive produce. Additionally, Craig Gillespie (I, Tonya) will direct with a script written by Aline Brosh McKenna, Jez Butterworth, Dana Fox, Kelly Marcel, Tony McNamara, and Steve Zissis.

What do you think of the rumor? Would you like to see Strong appear as Cruella’s father? Sound off in the comments below!

Cruella will leap into theaters on May 28, 2021. The film stars Emma Stone, Emma Thompson, Paul Walter Hauser, and Joel Fry.