Who Plays Gaston In Beauty And The Beast 30th Anniversary
Beauty and the Beast, a classic Disney movie that has captured the hearts of millions, celebrated its 30th anniversary in 2021. It is a tale as old as time, and it has been retold in many different formats, including a Broadway musical and a live-action movie. One of the most memorable characters in the story is Gaston, the arrogant and self-centered antagonist who tries to win Belle's heart. But who played Gaston in the original animated movie? Let's find out.
The Voice of Gaston
The voice of Gaston in the original animated movie was provided by Richard White, an American actor and singer. White was born on August 4, 1953, in Oak Ridge, Tennessee. He graduated from the University of Cincinnati's College-Conservatory of Music with a degree in opera.
Before he was cast as Gaston, White appeared in several Broadway musicals, including The Pirates of Penzance, Once Upon a Mattress, and Grand Hotel. He also had a recurring role on the soap opera As the World Turns.
White's performance as Gaston was praised by critics and audiences alike. He brought the character to life with his powerful voice and impeccable comedic timing. His rendition of the song "Gaston" is one of the movie's most memorable moments.
The Live-Action Gaston
In 2017, Disney released a live-action version of Beauty and the Beast, which starred Emma Watson as Belle and Dan Stevens as the Beast. Luke Evans was cast as Gaston, and he gave a memorable performance.
Evans was born on April 15, 1979, in Pontypool, Wales. He began his career in London's West End, appearing in musicals like Rent and Miss Saigon. He then transitioned to film, starring in movies like Fast & Furious 6, The Hobbit trilogy, and Dracula Untold.
Evans' portrayal of Gaston was different from White's. While White's Gaston was more comedic, Evans' Gaston was more sinister and menacing. He brought a new dimension to the character, and his performance was widely praised.
The Broadway Gaston
Beauty and the Beast was also adapted into a Broadway musical, which premiered in 1994. The role of Gaston was originated by Burke Moses.
Moses was born on September 10, 1959, in New York City. He began his career on Broadway, appearing in shows like Kiss of the Spider Woman and The Phantom of the Opera. He also had roles in movies like The First Wives Club and The Perfect Murder.
Moses' Gaston was similar to White's, with a focus on comedy and larger-than-life physicality. He was a scene-stealer, and his performance was a highlight of the show.
Conclusion
Overall, there have been several talented actors who have brought Gaston to life in various formats of Beauty and the Beast. Richard White's portrayal in the original animated movie is iconic, and Luke Evans and Burke Moses brought their own unique takes to the character in the live-action movie and Broadway musical, respectively. Regardless of who played Gaston, one thing is certain: he is a memorable and entertaining character that adds to the magic of Beauty and the Beast.