Luca’s Jim Gaffigan Talks Live-Action Peter Pan
Gaffigan to play Smee in Disney’s upcoming Peter Pan and Wendy movie…
Who’s the best character in Disney’s animated classic Peter Pan? Peter, Captain Hook? Wendy or her brothers? One of the Lost Boys? Tink?
[Gameshow WRONG sound]
Nope, it’s Smee.
Image: Disney
Jim Gaffigan As Smee
Image: People
Smee, whose undying loyalty to Captain Hook seems completely misplaced, really brings a sense of humor to the tale and gives a solid counterbalance to Hook’s dastardly deeds throughout the movie.
And now, we’re hearing that comedian Jim Gaffigan (the hot pockets guy) will play Smee, Hook’s affable henchman, in Disney’s upcoming live-action version of the classic tale by J.M. Barrie.
Image: Disney
Recently, the affable comedian spoke to CinemaBlend’s Sarah El-Mahmoud about his work on Luca but dished a little on the upcoming film Peter Pan and Wendy.
However, like all Disney actors, Gaffigan played it close to the vest.
Lowery Resists Growing Up
Image: Disney
“What I will say is it’s directed by David Lowery, who’s done a lot of great stuff, but he did Pete’s Dragon, so I think he understands some of this,” said Gaffigan, who seems entirely correct.
Previously, Lowery told CinemaBlend:
Peter Pan has long been one of my favorite stories, partially because I’ve always resisted growing up, but also because of the heart, adventure and imagination that makes J.M. Barrie’s original tale so evergreen. I’m thrilled to have the opportunity to redefine his iconic characters for a new generation — and even more excited that I get to do so with such an exceptional cast and crew.”
Image: Disney
Gaffigan On Smee
So, it will be really interesting to see the directors take, but ultimately I am jazzed to Gaffigan in the role of Smee.
Gaffigan, who voiced Luca’s dad Lorenzo Paguro in the recent Disney+ release, said there is a complexity to Smee and Hook’s relationship in Peter Pan and Wendy.
Image: Disney
“There’s a complexity in all the relationships that remains authentic, but also is more grounded,” Gaffigan told CinemaBlend. “In other words, there’s a reasoning behind Hook and Smee’s relationship, there’s a reasoning behind Peter [Pan’s] and everyone involved.”
“And to your question about the relationship [between Captain Hook and Smee], it’s not the same as the cartoon version, obviously. There’s a complexity to it that I think people are really going to like.”
Photo Credit: Walt Disney Archives
—Disney Legend Roy Williams holds up a boisterous sketch of Captain Hook beside fellow Disney Legend Ward Kimball, who recoils while holding up his drawing of Mr. Smee.
Are you excited about this upcoming Disney live-action reboot? Tell us why or why not in the comments.
Feature Image: Disney
