The Actresses Who Voiced Disney’s Beloved Princesses Name Their Surprising Pick for Best Disney Villain
When you think of Disney’s most iconic characters, the beloved princesses and the sinister villains who oppose them often come to mind. But what happens when the actresses behind these princesses reveal their own pick for the best Disney villain? Recently, a group of these talented voice actresses gathered for a special event, and the result was a surprising and unexpected choice that has fans buzzing.
A Gathering of Disney Royalty
The event, which brought together the voices behind some of Disney’s most cherished princesses, was a dream come true for fans of all ages. Attendees included Jodi Benson (Ariel from The Little Mermaid), Paige O’Hara (Belle from Beauty and the Beast), Linda Larkin (Jasmine from Aladdin), and Mandy Moore (Rapunzel from Tangled). The actresses shared stories from their time working on the iconic films, discussed the lasting impact of their characters, and answered questions from an eager audience.
But it was during a particularly lively discussion about Disney villains that the conversation took an unexpected turn. When asked to name their favorite Disney villain, the actresses surprised everyone with their unanimous pick—a character not often associated with the title of “best villain.”
The Surprising Choice: Yzma from The Emperor’s New Groove
To the astonishment of many, the actresses chose Yzma, the eccentric and scheming antagonist from The Emperor’s New Groove, as their top pick for the best Disney villain. Voiced by the legendary Eartha Kitt, Yzma is known for her unique blend of humor, cunning, and over-the-top antics. While not as traditionally menacing as some of Disney’s other villains, Yzma’s unforgettable personality and memorable lines have earned her a special place in the hearts of both fans and the actresses who voiced Disney’s princesses.
Jodi Benson, who brought Ariel to life, explained the group’s choice: “Yzma is just such a different kind of villain. She’s hilarious, she’s unpredictable, and Eartha Kitt’s performance is simply iconic. There’s something so refreshing about a villain who doesn’t take herself too seriously, and that’s what makes Yzma stand out.”
Why Yzma Stands Out
The decision to crown Yzma as the best Disney villain might seem unconventional, especially when considering the more traditionally evil characters like Maleficent, Ursula, or Scar. However, the actresses pointed out that Yzma’s unique characteristics make her a standout in the Disney villain lineup.
Paige O’Hara, who voiced Belle, elaborated on Yzma’s appeal: “Yzma is a villain you can’t help but love. She’s not driven by hatred or darkness—she’s just hilariously misguided. The humor she brings to the role is something that’s so different from what we usually see in Disney villains, and that’s why she’s such a memorable character.”
Linda Larkin, the voice of Jasmine, added, “Eartha Kitt’s performance was pure magic. Yzma is one of those characters who has layers—she’s funny, she’s sassy, and she’s a little bit of a diva. It’s a combination that makes her unforgettable.”
Fans React to the Unexpected Choice
The actresses’ choice of Yzma as the best Disney villain quickly sparked a lively debate among fans on social media. While some were initially surprised by the pick, many quickly warmed to the idea, with some pointing out that Yzma’s humor and unique approach to villainy set her apart from more conventional Disney antagonists.
Fans shared their favorite Yzma moments and quotes, with many agreeing that her comedic style and Eartha Kitt’s unforgettable voice work make her a worthy contender for the title of best Disney villain. The conversation also brought renewed attention to The Emperor’s New Groove, a film that, while not as commercially successful as other Disney classics, has gained a strong cult following over the years.
A New Appreciation for Disney’s Quirky Villain
In the end, the actresses’ surprising pick for best Disney villain has shone a new light on Yzma, reminding fans of why she’s such a beloved character. While other villains may be more traditionally menacing, Yzma’s unique blend of humor, style, and charisma make her a standout choice. As fans continue to debate their own favorite villains, one thing is certain—Yzma’s star is shining brighter than ever, thanks to the princesses who know her best.
