First Look At Disney’s ASL Re-Animated Songs From ‘Encanto,’ ‘Frozen 2,’ ‘Moana 2’

Why It Matters

The initiative opens Disney’s multi‑billion‑dollar franchise to the 70 million‑plus U.S. Deaf community, establishing a new industry standard for accessible animated content.

Key Takeaways

• Disney+ debut on April 27 features three ASL‑re‑animated songs
• Over 20 animators volunteered, collaborating with Deaf West Theatre experts
• Chosen for easy asset reuse: Frozen 2, Encanto, Moana 2 songs
• Focus on authentic facial cues and distinct signing styles per character

Pulse Analysis

Disney’s latest accessibility push reflects a broader shift toward inclusive storytelling in mainstream entertainment. By re‑animating three beloved songs in American Sign Language, the studio not only honors the original musical moments but also translates them into a visual language that Deaf audiences can experience directly. The project builds on Disney’s existing diversity initiatives, positioning the company as a leader in bridging the gap between high‑budget animation and the needs of a historically underserved demographic.

The production process blended traditional animation pipelines with specialized sign‑language choreography. Hyrum Osmond recruited a volunteer crew of more than 20 animators and partnered with Deaf West Theatre’s DJ Kurs and choreographer Catalene Sacchetti to capture nuanced hand movements and facial expressions. Each character’s signing style was deliberately varied—fast, slow, high‑energy or subtle—to mirror real‑world ASL diversity. By reusing existing asset files from recent films, the team could focus on precise facial rigging, ensuring that the emotional weight of the songs remained intact while adding a new layer of visual communication.

From a business perspective, the move taps into a sizable market segment while reinforcing Disney’s brand as socially responsible. The U.S. Deaf and hard‑of‑hearing community represents over 70 million individuals, many of whom have limited access to mainstream animated content. Offering ASL‑integrated versions on Disney+ not only expands viewership but also sets a precedent that other studios are likely to follow. As the industry watches audience reception, this proof‑of‑concept could spark a wave of similar adaptations, making accessibility a competitive advantage rather than a niche afterthought.