**New Generation of ‘Descendants’ Star in Upcoming Film, Inspired by Legacy of the Franchise**
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The beloved ‘Descendants’ franchise is set to continue its legacy with the upcoming release of its fifth film, *Descendants: Wicked Wonderland*. In the lead-up to its anticipated premiere on 16 July, the young stars of the film, Kylie Cantrall, Malia Baker, and Liamani Segura, shared their reflections on the series that has significantly affected both their lives and the lives of countless young fans.
At the recent Disney 2026 Upfront event held on 12 May, the trio spoke about how their journey with the franchise began long before they donned their characters’ costumes. The cast, who were childhood fans of *Descendants*, expressed deep enthusiasm for stepping into roles that are often fantasy-tinged representations of Disney’s iconic heroes and villains.
Kylie Cantrall, now 21, plays Red, the daughter of the Queen of Hearts, portrayed by Rita Ora. Her character’s debut in the previous instalment, *Descendants: The Rise of Red*, marked a deliberate shift within the franchise toward a fresh ensemble of characters imbued with new narrative possibilities. For Cantrall, taking on the role was akin to living out a dream that began when she first watched the original film nearly a decade ago.
“I grew up being the biggest Descendants fan,” Cantrall remarked. “When I saw *Rotten to the Core* for the first time, I felt an immediate connection. That was the moment I thought, ‘I want to be a VK.’” Now that she has embraced that dream, Cantrall hopes her portrayal of Red will inspire the next generation of performers seeking to carve their own paths in the entertainment industry.
Originally launched in 2015 as a Disney Channel Original Movie starring Dove Cameron, Sofia Carson, Cameron Boyce, and Booboo Stewart, the *Descendants* series has captivated audiences with its unique blend of original music, engaging characters, and sartorial flair. Over the years, the franchise has grown to encompass a book series authored by Melissa de la Cruz, an animated spinoff, and live concerts held across North America.
Malia Baker, aged 19, also shared her excitement about being part of a project with such lasting influence. She plays Chloe Charming, and her character’s evolution from being Red’s adversary to her friend adds depth to the narrative arc. Baker noted that the visibility of their characters through merchandise, such as dolls and costumes, profoundly showcases the franchise’s impact on younger generations.
“It’s truly special to see how the movies resonate with young girls,” Baker explained. “When I witness their excitement and notice how they wish to emulate characters like Chloe, it’s a magical experience. It reinforces the importance of representation and connection to the narrative.”
Liamani Segura, the youngest of the trio at 17, brings a new character to the fold with Pink, Red’s younger sister. This addition follows the time-bending escapades featured in the third film. As the narrative unfolds, Segura’s Pink, alongside Red and Chloe, will confront the consequences of their actions, allowing fresh storytelling avenues for fans to explore.
“This opportunity to influence children’s childhoods is something I cherish,” Segura reflected. “It’s an absolute blessing to be part of a franchise that means so much to its viewers, and I hope we can build upon that legacy.”
The *Descendants* franchise has not only enchanted audiences but also fostered a community amongst its performers and fans. As this new generation steps into the spotlight, they do so carrying the hopes and dreams of the many that came before them.
In a world where storytelling can shape the lives of young viewers, the cast understands the importance of their roles, both in the characters they portray and as inspirational figures for aspiring performers. The journey of these young actresses highlights the powerful legacy of the *Descendants* series, as it inspires the next generation to engage with creativity, friendship, and self-discovery.
As anticipation builds for *Descendants: Wicked Wonderland*, the film promises to deliver more magic and inspiration, not only for its young cast but also for its dedicated fanbase that has supported the franchise since its inception.