Disney opened Licensing International 2006 in New York by revealing Brittany Murphy as the voice of the sassy and spunky fairy for the 2007 release of Tinker Bell. In the tradition of its many animated classics, Disney will bring to life an enchanting tale of Pixie Hollow and Tink’s new fairy friends voiced by some of Hollywood’s most talented actors.
“I’ve had the good fortune of playing many interesting characters, but none as magical as Tinker Bell,” said Ms. Murphy. “To give Tinker Bell a voice for the first time in history is such an honor.”
Tinker Bell will be the first time audiences hear Tinker Bell speak, as the movie brings to life the amazing world of Disney Fairies in all-new CG-animation. The movie, to release globally in Fall 2007 by DisneyToon Studios and Walt Disney Home Entertainment, will be supported with a strong marketing campaign and a broad consumer products line at major retailers around the world.
“Tinker Bell is such an indelible character to pop-culture even without a voice,” said Dick Cook, chairman of Walt Disney Studios. “She is sassy, feisty and independent. Brittany’s distinctive voice and superb talent will bring all these qualities to life, as well as show new sides to Tink’s personality. Audiences will get to know Tinker Bell like never before, and I am sure will fall in love with her all over again.”
Disney Fairies launched in September 2005 with the worldwide launch of Disney Publishing’s “Fairy Dust and the Quest for the Egg” novel, which spent 20 weeks on the New York Times bestseller list. Over one million books were released in 33 languages and in 51 countries.
Disney Fairies builds upon the enormous popularity of Tinker Bell and introduces children to her secret, magical world and a new circle of enchanting fairy friends — each with an incredibly diverse talent, personality and look. In 2006, Disney Consumer Products (DCP) is supporting the franchise with a series of best-selling chapter books; small dolls and role-play items; a Disney Fairies magazine launch in Europe; and a multi-category product launch scheduled for Spring 2007.