Anastasia wasn’t always considered part of Disney’s world, but to many moviegoers, she was a princess long before she officially joined the ranks of Disney royalty.
The 1997 animated film, featuring the voices of Meg Ryan, John Cusack, Kelsey Grammer, Christopher Lloyd, and Angela Lansbury, tells the tale of a young woman with amnesia who may be the missing Grand Duchess of Russia. With its blend of romance, adventure, and a captivating musical score, Anastasia quickly became a standout of late-’90s animated cinema, leaving a lasting impression with songs like “Journey to the Past” and its fairy-tale-meets-history storyline.
However, unlike iconic Disney princesses like Ariel and Belle, Anastasia was not born out of the Disney magic. The film was produced by animation rivals Don Bluth and Gary Goldman under the banner of 20th Century Fox Animation, adding a unique twist to Anastasia’s royal lineage.
For years, Anastasia lived outside the Disney princess realm, maintaining her independence until 2019 when The Walt Disney Company acquired 21st Century Fox, bringing Anastasia into the Disney family, at least on paper.
But despite now being under the Disney umbrella, Anastasia has retained her individuality. She has not been officially crowned as a Disney Princess, nor has she been heavily featured in crossovers or reimagined for a new generation like other Disney characters.
The reluctance to fully embrace Anastasia into the Disney fold may stem from the film’s origins and Bluth’s desire to establish something outside of Disney’s traditional formula. The historical inspiration behind Anastasia also adds a layer of complexity, setting her apart from the typical princess narrative.
This leaves Anastasia in a unique position in pop culture—a beloved princess figure associated with Disney spirit yet not fully integrated into the brand.
As discussions surrounding Anastasia’s place in the Disney universe continue, fans are divided. Some view her as a natural addition to the Disney Princess lineup, highlighting her story, songs, and enduring popularity. Others believe she should remain separate, honoring Bluth’s vision for an independent princess outside Disney’s hierarchy.
For now, Anastasia remains a princess in limbo, representing a bygone era of animation rivalry and individual spirit.
Peace Nero is a writer and blogger who loves to explore different topics of self-development. She shares her personal experiences in order to help people discover their true purpose in life.