Scene from The Princess Diaries. Credit: Walt Disney Pictures
Over 20 years have passed since The Princess Diaries first introduced audiences to Anne Hathaway and marked a memorable Disney return for the legendary Julie Andrews. The 2001 comedy, directed by Garry Marshall and based on Meg Cabot’s novel, won hearts with its humorous and touching story of a socially awkward teenager who discovers she is royalty. Tonight, August 25, viewers can enjoy this classic film during the Wonderful World of Disney Movie Night on ABC, starting at 8:30 PM Eastern Time.
The film follows Mia Thermopolis (played by Anne Hathaway), a teenager just trying to navigate the challenges of high school. Her life takes a dramatic turn when she learns of her father’s death and discovers that he was the prince of Genovia, making her a princess. According to Disney's official synopsis, Mia's journey to embracing her new royal status includes a comical transformation filled with media attention, jealous classmates, and a plot to overthrow her country.
In addition to Hathaway and Andrews, who stars as Mia’s grandmother Queen Clarisse Renaldi, the film features a talented cast, including Heather Matarazzo, Mandy Moore, Caroline Goodall, Robert Schwartzman, and Garry Marshall’s frequent collaborator Héctor Elizondo.
Anyone with access to ABC through a traditional pay-TV service, TV antenna, or live TV streaming platforms like Fubo, Hulu with Live TV, or YouTube TV, can catch the movie tonight from 8:30 PM to 11:00 PM Eastern Time. ABC has been showcasing a mix of Disney-owned films and beloved classics throughout the summer, including hits like Encanto, Toy Story 2, Up, and the live-action remake of The Jungle Book.
For those without access to ABC, both The Princess Diaries and its 2004 sequel, The Princess Diaries 2: Royal Engagement, are available for streaming on Disney Plus.
