Zendaya Responds To Critics Mad About Her Aaliyah Role

Zendaya Responds To Critics

Yesterday, it was announced that Disney star Zendaya Coleman was cast as Aaliyah in the Lifetime Original TV Movie “Aaliyah: Princess of R&B,” and critics had a lot to say about it. Some fans thought it was great choice while others vehemently disagreed with the pick:

“Not trying to take anything away from Ms. Zendaya But i have only seen her as a Disney star watching with my daughters and only seen her in funny comedic roles. Yes she can sing and dance but this is a role of importance Aalyiah [sic] was an Icon and was taken from us way to soon. Her story should be honored all the way around including who plays her,” one commenter wrote on our site.

“Is there not a another actress that can sing and dance and just look a little bit more like Aaliyah?? plsss look around there must be one,” said another.

Well, Zendaya took to Twitter to respond.

The YBF spoke with casting director Tracy “Twinkie” Byrd, who had this to say about her decision,

Zendaya embodies everything you want in an Actress to play Aaliyah. She is a Poised, Professional, STRONG Actress (studied at California Shakespeare Theater and American Conservatory Theater). A Triple Threat Actor, Singer Dancer. She LOVES AALIYAH and will do a Wonderful Job! She is of mixed ethnicity. Her name is Bantu (Zimbabwe) meaning “To Give Thanks.”

Let’s not Hate on it but Congratulate! She is a GREAT CHOICE!

We weren’t too sure about the cast decision, at first, but after browsing YouTube, we realized that Zendaya wasn’t that bad of a choice. Sure, there were tons of other actresses who could have been chosen (as is the sentiment in Hollywood often) but, we think Zendaya’s ability to do choreography and her vocal chops will carry her through the role.

Filming for “Aaliyah: Princess of R&B” begins this summer and the movie will premiere this fall.

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