Will Smith has been confirmed ad the Genie in Disney`s live action Alladin` directed by Guy Ritchie which will go on floors soon. Mena Massoud, who has appeared in the Jack Ryan` series is playing the titular character while Naomi Scott has been roped in for the role of his love interest Jasmine.

It may be recalled that Guy Ritchie had to delay the start of Alladin` because he did not get the right actors, but now that bridge has been crossed not without displeasure from some sections. Many have objected to the casting of Naomi Scott as Jasmine because she does not have middle Eastern heritage, even though she is part Indian being born to a Gujarati mother. Tom Holland who reportedly was keen to play the main villain Jaffar has also pulled out due to criticism that the project is whitewashed.