Sabrina Bryan, best known for playing Dorinda in the Disney franchise “The Cheetah Girls,” is opening up about her surprise return to the network for the upcoming fourth film, titled “Next Gen.” In a new interview, the “Dancing with the Stars” alum revealed how everything came together nearly 20 years after the last film and said she was “beyond excited” about the next chapter in the franchise’s history.
Speaking with AP, Bryan expressed her excitement and gratitude to Disney for continuing to tell the “Cheetah Girls” story almost 20 years after the third film aired in 2008.
“Ugh, my goodness, it’s like a long time waiting; always hoping; always hearing the fans’ request and the idea that, you know, it was a slow burn for the answers to come, and Disney finally [is] giving the fans what they want, and I was beyond excited,” she said.
Bryan, who played Dorinda in the first three films, will reprise her role in a guest appearance, and according to her, getting back into character shouldn’t be an issue.
“I have never stopped wearing cheetah shoes, pants, accessories, all of it. So, it’s not that I’m just putting them back on, but I’m definitely excited to be coming back as Dorinda again,” she added.
Bryan Has Always Been Down To Return For A Fourth Movie
In a previous interview with PEOPLE, Bryan said she was “absolutely” down to return for a fourth movie, noting that she believed it was important to “get more of the Cheetah message out there.”
Throughout the first three films, the “Cheetah Girls” focuses on several core themes about friendship, ambition, and staying humble. The group’s bond is tested in different ways when producers and outsiders try to change their image and control their music. Over time, the girls learn that they’re only strong when they stand together.
Bryan’s co-star, Raven Symoné, in an interview with Entertainment Tonight, said that a reason she’s so passionate about the “Cheetah Girls” is everything that came with the characters and franchise.
“Another moment in culture that gave girl power, that gave fashion, that gave songs — [I’m] very blessed to be a part of that,” she said. “And can’t wait to see what the future holds with that. It’s gonna be interesting to see what the future holds in regards to the Cheetah Girls.”
Symoné Teased The ‘Cheetah Girls 4’ In 2024
And speaking of Symoné, the “That’s So Raven” alum teased a possible fourth movie back in 2024, saying that if something were to happen, the new film would follow a new generation of girls and show how important it is to rely on each other.
“I think now it’s starting to change a little bit. I think girls are more like, ‘I got you, girl,’ and to be able to mirror that back in such an iconic, cool, innovative way that screams Cheetah… I mean, I’d be a part of it,” she said.
Adrienne Bailon Is Returning For The Fourth Film, Too
According to a previous report from The Blast, Adrienne Bailon, who played Chanel in the first three films, is set to reprise her role alongside Symoné in the next movie.
The next film will reportedly follow their characters and a younger group of Cheetah Girls as they travel to Africa to help save a wildlife sanctuary. Of course, throughout the movie, the group will be tested, but by the end, they’ll realize they’re stronger together.
“The Cheetah Girls has always been about friendship, music, and empowering young people to use their voice,” said Ayo Davis, president, Disney Kids & Family. “That spirit connected deeply with a generation of fans, and it still resonates today. Bringing this dynamic new group of young stars to the franchise allows us to continue that legacy for a new era of kids and families.”
This OG ‘Cheetah Girl’ Cast Member Is Not Part Of The Film
Another report from The Blast notes that original “Cheetah Girls” cast member, Kiely Williams, is the only one not scheduled to appear in the upcoming film. Her sister, Tse Williams, blasted the main characters in an X post, calling them “hateful b-tches” and “2-faced liars.”
“Kiely was the easy person to villainize since the 3LW, so here we are. I believe in karma. They will get [what’s] due; they will have earned it,” Tse added.
While it’s unclear why Williams wasn’t invited to take part in the next film, there have been reports of unresolved conflict between her and Bailon. In the past, Williams said publicly that she took issue with Bailon skipping her dad’s funeral and allegedly failing to reach out to her after his death.
“She didn’t come to my dad’s funeral or call me when he died,” Kiely said. “I’m sorry, I’m not trying to be messy. I’m being for real with you, no. You can say what you want about me and how you felt about me, but you can’t ever say that I didn’t f—— ride for Adrienne. You can’t say that.”
