Disney managed to bring back Robin Williams’ Aladdin character Genie without the use of artificial intelligence. A powerful jinn who accompanies Aladdin throughout the film, Genie’s constant humor and performance of “Friend Like Me” made him a standout and fan favorite in terms of Disney animation. Williams’ stand-up experience was key to the character’s success, and the actor earned significant praise for his role following the movie’s release. Now, in the new short Once Upon a Studio, over 500 well-known animated figures can be seen coming to life, including Genie, but audiences may be questioning how Williams’ voice was incorporated.

Per Variety, producer Bradford Simonsen revealed that he and Yvett Merino contacted Williams’ estate in order to feature Genie in Once Upon a Studio. He also shared that outtakes from Aladdin were used, as opposed to AI technology. Read Simonsen’s comments about bringing back Genie below:

” We tried to take them on the journey with us to say, ‘We’ve got this very special short that we’re doing. Robin as the genie means so much to so many people and we would really love to involve him. So Dan listened to the outtakes from the original recording and he found those little bites that we could use. We went back to the estate and said, ‘This is what we hope to do.’ Eric, who originally animated the genie is on the show, and he’s going to be part of it.’ And it was wonderful to see that happen. “

Why Robin Williams’ Genie Is So Iconic

Genie remains an iconic Disney character largely because of Williams’ performance, regarded as one of the actor’s best. However, his relationship with Aladdin is also important, considering the circumstances under which they meet. The film’s co-director John Musker previously attributed Genie to Aladdin‘s legacy, and noted Williams’ ability to be charming and sincere. While he didn’t return for the movie’s first sequel, the star did reprise his role in Aladdin and the King of Thieves, and it’s exciting to hear his voice again in Once Upon a Studio. During the animated short, Genie startles Frozen‘s Olaf, poking fun at his reaction with another memorable line.

Given how talented Williams was, it makes sense that there would be a lot of outtakes from Aladdin, especially if he improvised. Recently, there have been growing concerns, and frustrations, surrounding the use of artificial intelligence in film, so the decision to connect with the actor’s estate and find a way to incorporate his actual voice has been better received. Earlier in October, Williams’ daughter discussed AI, expressing discontent over the idea of imitating a performer’s voice.

Audiences should be happy to find out that it’s actually Williams’ voice in Once Upon a Studio, instead of AI, and that his estate was made aware of it. When it comes to a character as beloved as Aladdin‘s Genie, there are big shoes to fill, but Williams’ performance will always be remembered.