How Brandy’s ‘Cinderella’ Reminded Me Black Girls Can Be Princesses Too

24 years after its release, Rodgers & Hammerstein’s Cinderella is still one-of-a-kind.

Photo by cottonbro from Pexels

Do you want to know a secret? I love princesses. As a kid, I kept that love hidden. When asked what I wanted to be when I grew up, I stuck to more sensible career choices — like being a pop star.

But, my love for princesses began early. There’s only one reason for that: watching Brandy in Rodgers & Hammerstein’s Cinderella.

The Magic of Rodgers & Hammerstein’s Cinderella

The film came out in 1997 when I was two years old. From the anthem “Impossible” to Whitney Houston as the Fairy Godmother to seeing a Black girl with box braids as Cinderella, I was in love.

This film instilled in me that glittery dresses, Prince Charmings, and happily ever afters weren’t out of my reach. But, in the 24 years since Rodgers & Hammerstein’s Cinderella came out, Black female princesses have been few and far…