Director Kenny Ortega recently shared his reflections on the magical journey of working on the hit Disney Channel film, “Descendants,” in an exclusive interview with PEOPLE. Ortega, known for his work on the High School Musical trilogy, discussed the significance of creating a safe and nurturing environment for the young stars of the Descendants franchise.
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As Descendants marks its 10th anniversary, Ortega reminisced about the profound impact of the franchise. Having previously worked on the successful High School Musical series, Ortega sensed that he was embarking on another groundbreaking project when he first read the script for Descendants in 2015. He acknowledged the challenge and importance of telling the story, particularly in casting the lead roles, after witnessing the rapid rise to fame of the High School Musical cast.
Ortega emphasised the critical role of casting, highlighting the importance of finding actors with chemistry and potential. He stressed the need for actors who were not just performers but true partners in the creative process. Drawing from his past experiences, Ortega pointed out the responsibility and sacrifices that come with fame, especially for young actors navigating sudden celebrity status.
Creating a positive and supportive environment on set was a priority for Ortega, who aimed to empower the young actors and ensure they felt valued and safe. He underscored the importance of collaboration and respect, encouraging everyone involved in the production to recognise and honour the contributions of the cast members.
Reflecting on the filming of Descendants, Ortega recalled a moment during the production of the opening number, “Rotten to the Core,” where he felt the Disney magic come alive once again. He also paid tribute to the late Cameron Boyce, who played a significant role in the franchise and left a lasting impact on everyone involved.
As Descendants continues with new iterations like “Descendants: The Rise of Red” and “Descendants: Wicked Wonderland,” Ortega expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to be part of projects that resonate with audiences across generations. He credited his mentor, Gene Kelly, for instilling in him the belief in projects that go beyond entertainment to inspire and influence young viewers.
From High School Musical to Descendants, Ortega’s work has left a lasting impression on fans and introduced new generations to the magic of Disney storytelling. As the franchise evolves with new cast members taking on iconic roles, the spirit of creativity and camaraderie that Ortega instilled on set continues to shape the legacy of Descendants for years to come.