Netflix Animation Studios is reimagining the classic Cinderella fairy tale with Steps, a new animated adventure that puts the spotlight on the princess’s often-misunderstood stepsisters. Featuring Ali Wong and Stephanie Hsu as the voices of Lilith and Margot, the film arrives on Netflix on November 20, 2026.
While the familiar tale revolves around a royal ball, a glass slipper, and a magical midnight deadline, Steps explores the story from a different perspective, challenging the idea that Cinderella’s stepsisters are simply villains. The film follows Lilith and Margot as their actions set off a chain of events that threatens the entire kingdom, forcing them to confront their differences and find a way to work together.
Tired of living in Cinderella’s shadow, Lilith steals the Fairy Godmother’s magic wand and disrupts the royal ball alongside her sister, Margot. Their actions inadvertently allow the villainous Priscilla, voiced by comedian Nikki Glaser, to seize the throne and impose her tyrannical rule. To save the kingdom, Lilith must join forces with Cinderella, voiced by Amanda Seyfried, on a dangerous quest involving biker trolls, evil henchmen, and the mysterious Screaming Woods. Along the way, the sisters must also find a way to repair their relationship.
Directed by Alyce Tzue, a Student Academy Awards gold medal winner, and John Ripa, co-director of Raya and the Last Dragon, the film combines familiar fairy-tale elements with an unconventional adventure centered on family, acceptance, and belonging.
For Tzue, the story reflects the experience of feeling like an outsider and discovering that differences do not necessarily divide people. She hopes the film will resonate with audiences who have struggled to feel that they belong, while highlighting how a single act of kindness can make a difference.
Ripa also sees the project as an opportunity to challenge traditional fairy-tale storytelling by giving every character greater depth and the chance to find their own happily ever after.
The film features a star-studded voice cast, including Daniel Radcliffe as the unconventional Prince, Young Mazino as Gef, Peter Dinklage as Roderick, Bette Midler as the Fairy Godmother, and WWE Superstar Damian Priest as Cracktor. Midler’s Fairy Godmother is described as well-meaning but somewhat clumsy and scheming, offering a different take on the familiar magical character.
With its reimagined characters, magical conflicts, and emphasis on sisterhood, Steps offers a fresh take on a beloved fairy tale, inviting audiences to reconsider who deserves a happily ever after.
Steps premieres on Netflix on November 20, 2026.
