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Netflix has unveiled Steps, a fresh animated spin on the Cinderella myth that flips the script on the classic villains. The streamer announced a 2026 premiere window and revealed that Ali Wong and Stephanie Hsu will voice the lead roles. A first-look image accompanied the news, teasing a playful, irreverent retelling packed with magic and mischief.
What the story promises: villains stepping into the spotlight
The film reframes the so-called “evil” stepsisters as the story’s heart. The plot centers on Lilith and Margot, sisters caught in a fairy-tale crisis after a stolen magic wand disrupts a royal ball. When a spell goes awry, Margot becomes a frog, and the kingdom falls under the sway of a prince-obsessed antagonist. Lilith must join forces with Cinderella and an unexpected ally to mend the kingdom and challenge the label of villainy.
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Cast reveal: two comedic stars lead the voice ensemble
Ali Wong and Stephanie Hsu take center stage
Ali Wong voices Lilith, a misunderstood sister whose actions set the plot in motion. Stephanie Hsu plays Margot, the sibling who suffers the odd curse. The casting leans into both actresses’ comic strengths and emotional range, promising a performance-driven animated adventure.
Creative team and production roles
Steps is directed by John Ripa and Alyce Tzue. Ripa is known for his work on Raya and the Last Dragon. Tzue earned a Student Academy Award for her short film Soar and makes her feature debut here. The movie lists Amy Poehler, Jane Hartwell, and Kim Lessing as producers. Poehler’s involvement signals a comedic sensibility and character-first approach.
How the film evolved during development
The project first surfaced in 2021. Early reports linked comedians Riki Lindhome and Kate Micucci to the film’s music and screenplay work. Since then, the creative lineup appears to have shifted, and those early contributors are not listed in the current announcement. The film’s journey reflects common changes in animation projects as scripts and song lists find new directions.
Marketing and the first visuals
Alongside the casting and release window, Netflix shared an early image that hints at the film’s tone. The art portrays a whimsical, slightly subversive aesthetic. It teases character designs, mood, and the film’s blend of humor and heart without giving away plot twists.
Where Steps sits in Netflix Animation’s recent run
The announcement arrives after a breakout year for Netflix Animation. One international hit, KPop Demon Hunters, became the platform’s most-watched film to date. Industry observers now name it a frontrunner for Best Animated Feature at the 2026 Oscars.
- KPop Demon Hunters — record-breaking global reach for Netflix.
- Fixed — an adult animated comedy added to the slate.
- The Twits — a Roald Dahl adaptation aimed at families.
- In Your Dreams — a family-friendly animated comedy.
Steps joins this lineup as Netflix expands its animation ambitions. The studio is balancing adult comedies, literary adaptations, and family fare. This project aims to add a fairy-tale remix to that mix.
What to watch for next
Expect more casting updates, promotional art, and a trailer as the film moves closer to 2026. Industry watchers will also look for confirmations about the musical team and screenplay credits. With Amy Poehler producing and two high-profile voices attached, Steps is shaping up as a notable entry in Netflix’s animation slate.
