“The Remarried Empress” Unveils Star-Studded Cast and Disney+ Premiere

Disney+ has officially confirmed that its original series The Remarried Empress—based on the wildly popular webtoon with a jaw-dropping 2.6 billion global views (as of December 2024)—will be streaming exclusively in 2026. Alongside the announcement, the platform unveiled an all-time dream cast that’s already sending waves of excitement through fans worldwide.

This highly anticipated adaptation brings to the screen the captivating tale of Empress Navier, whose perfectly ordered life is shattered when her emperor husband demands a divorce to be with his new mistress. But Navier isn’t one to be cast aside. She agrees to the divorce, but with a twist: she’ll marry a rival prince from the Western Kingdom. What unfolds is a thrilling saga packed with political maneuvering, passionate romance, and Navier’s fierce quest to reclaim her rightful power.

Prepare to re-enter the palace and witness a queen’s rise—The Remarried Empress is coming soon, only on Disney+.

Adapted from the smash-hit web novel and webtoon, The Remarried Empress is a sweeping romantic fantasy drama packed with palace intrigue, political maneuvering, and a love story that defies imperial expectations. At its core is the elegant and brilliant Empress Navier, who is blindsided when her childhood friend-turned-husband, Emperor Sovieshu, asks for a divorce after falling for a runaway slave, Rasta. Rather than break down, Navier shocks the empire by requesting permission to remarry Prince Heinrey of the Western Kingdom.

Since its debut as a web novel in 2018, The Remarried Empress has become a global sensation, translated into 10 languages and captivating readers with its fearless heroine and riveting storyline. Now, with top-tier direction, a powerful script, and a casting lineup straight out of a fan’s dream, the live-action adaptation is poised to redefine the romance fantasy genre on screen.

A Casting Crown Jewel

Leading the royal drama is Shin Min Ah as Empress Navier, whose poised elegance and piercing intelligence have earned her the love of an empire. Shin, known for beloved roles in Our Blues, Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha, and My Girlfriend is a Gumiho, takes a powerful turn as Navier—a woman scorned but never shaken. Her transformation into a woman who refuses to be sidelined and dares to love again is expected to be both empowering and emotionally stirring.

Opposite her is Ju Ji Hoon as Sovieshu, the seemingly untouchable emperor who betrays the empress he’s known since childhood. From Kingdom to Lightshop Keeper, Ju has built a reputation for dominating the screen with commanding charisma—and this time, he’ll channel his talents into portraying an emperor whose decisions ripple through two empires.

Lee Jong Suk steps into the role of Prince Heinrey, the enigmatic heir to the Western Kingdom’s throne. Known for his unforgettable performances in W, While You Were Sleeping, and Big Mouth, Lee brings both mystery and magnetism to a character who starts with a hidden agenda—but ends up hopelessly entangled in love. Fans can expect swoon-worthy scenes and a dynamic romance that turns court politics upside down.

Completing the central love square is Lee Se-young as Rasta, the runaway slave whose innocent exterior hides a deeply rooted ambition. With acclaimed performances in The Red Sleeve and Motel California, Lee dives into one of her most complex roles yet. Rasta’s rise—and what she’s willing to sacrifice for it—adds rich layers of tension and intrigue to the story.

Prepare to re-enter the palace and witness a queen’s rise—The Remarried Empress is coming soon, only on Disney+.