Downton Abbey Star Cast As Branagh’s Cinderella

We were excited enough when there was a prospect of a live-action Cinderella film from Disney, but not only is it going ahead, one of the finest directors working at the moment, Kenneth Branagh, is confirmed for the project.

Now, Lily James has been added as the title character to the Cinderella film, according to Digital Spy. James, who is currently starring in Downton Abbey as Lady Rose McClare, has previously worked on Secret Diary of a Call Girl and in Wrath of the Titans.

However, James has the honour of appearing opposite arguably the best actress working at the moment, Cate Blanchett, who will play Cinderella’s wicked stepmother.

Emma Watson had initially been tied to the project but she denied that any deal had been made.

Branagh has managed to work on some extremely high profile work of late, most notably Thor, paving the way for the Avengers films. Branagh turned down the prospect of directing the second instalment.