Beauty & The Beast's Animated Belle Reacts to Emma Watson's Casting in Live Action Film!

The actress who voiced the character Belle in the animated version of Beauty and the Beast has revealed her thoughts on the casting of Emma Watson in the upcoming live action version.

Paige O’Hara brought life to Belle in the original film 25 years ago and she opened up about the new version of the film while attending the anniversary screening this week.

“I thought it was genius casting!” Paige told People. “I don’t think you could pick anyone more right for Belle that’s out there that’s the right age. She’s beautiful, she’s got the intelligence, she’s extremely smart. I think she’s going to be wonderful. I really do!”

Paige also revealed what she thinks of Dan Stevens playing the Beast!

“I fell in love with him on Downton Abbey,” she said. “I was so angry and upset for three days after he got killed off that series – I almost boycotted it I was so angry!”

Make sure to see your first look at Emma as Belle in the recently released teaser trailer!