Isabela Merced fan favorite to play Princess Kida: Fans of Disney’s Atlantis: The Lost Empire are rallying behind the rising star, hoping she will be cast as Princess Kida if a live-action remake ever comes to the big screen. The buzz has grown rapidly online, with social media users naming Merced as their top choice to portray the fierce and wise animated heroine.
Online Campaigns Spark Momentum for Isabela Merced as Princess Kida
Discussions began to heat up on Threads when a fan introduced the idea that Isabela Merced would be an ideal fit for Princess Kida. Not long after, the suggestion gained significant traction, picking up steam across multiple online platforms. Most supporters highlight Merced’s compelling performances in films like Madame Web, The Last of Us, and Dora and the Lost City of Gold, noting that her acting range matches the complex nature of Kida’s character.
Merced’s ability to portray strong yet emotionally nuanced roles has struck a chord with followers of Atlantis: The Lost Empire. Many believe that beyond her physical resemblance to Kida, her energetic screen presence combined with her emotional intensity truly sets her apart as a candidate. As advocacy for Merced grows, fan campaigns are amplifying their voices, drawing the attention of wider audiences and media outlets.

The enthusiasm also derives from Merced’s multicultural background and fluency in Spanish, which fans feel could enrich the role of a princess set in a civilization rooted in ancient cultures. This added dimension is appealing to many who hope for authentic and diverse castings in Disney’s reimagined classics.
Enduring Appeal of Atlantis: The Lost Empire
More than twenty years after its cinematic debut, Atlantis: The Lost Empire remains a favorite among Disney aficionados. Released in 2001, the animated epic offered audiences something distinct, steering away from fairy tales and musical numbers in favor of high-stakes adventure. Central to the story is Milo Thatch, a linguist who sets out to prove the existence of Atlantis but soon finds himself caught in challenges far bigger than he anticipated.
At the heart of the film is Princess Kida, whose combination of strength, empathy, and leadership continues to resonate with viewers. Over time, appreciation for the film’s bold art style and its break from formulaic Disney conventions has only deepened, fueling its rise to cult classic status. Yet, upon its original release, Atlantis faced tough competition: films like Shrek and Tomb Raider overshadowed its box office performance, and its unique tone proved difficult to market to traditional Disney audiences.
Despite early challenges, the film’s reputation has flourished in the years since, with dedicated fans championing its worth and keeping Atlantis at the forefront of discussions about underrated Disney works. Both the film and Princess Kida have garnered renewed attention from younger audiences as well as those revisiting the movie on streaming services; currently, viewers in the USA can rent Atlantis: The Lost Empire via Apple TV and Disney+.
What Could a Live-Action Remake Mean for Disney and Audiences?
As the surge in live-action remakes from Disney—recently seen with properties like Lilo & Stitch—continues, calls for Atlantis: The Lost Empire are growing louder. The enthusiastic online support for casting Isabela Merced as Princess Kida represents a powerful fan movement that could influence casting decisions should Disney move forward with the project. The momentum surrounding Merced, acknowledged for both her talent and her cultural background, reflects broader shifts toward representation and diversity in Hollywood.
Although Disney has not confirmed plans for an Atlantis remake, the passion demonstrated by fans is undeniable. As fan campaigns amplify their message and social media continues to champion Merced for the leading role, the situation exemplifies how connected communities can shape the direction of major franchise reboots. If Disney acts on this groundswell, audiences may soon see the beloved Atlantis story brought to life in a way that honors both its origins and a new generation’s desires for authentic storytelling and inclusive casting.
