4. Initially, Tia Carrere was considered for the role of Mulan, the iconic title character. However, Lea Salonga, renowned for providing the captivating singing voice of Princess Jasmine in the beloved animated classic Aladdin, was ultimately chosen to deliver both the speaking and singing voices for Mulan. This decision highlighted the filmmakers’ commitment to authenticity and emotional depth in the character’s portrayal, ensuring that Mulan’s journey resonated with audiences on multiple levels.

5. Even though Salonga performed Mulan’s songs beautifully, the filmmakers decided to cast Ming-Na Wen as the speaking voice after they found that Salonga’s attempts to deepen her voice for the character of Ping did not convincingly capture the essence they were aiming for. Wen was selected after the producers were impressed by her compelling narration in The Joy Luck Club, which showcased her versatility and ability to convey deep emotion. Her unique vocal qualities and acting skills brought an authentic and relatable presence to the character of Mulan.

Producer Pam Coats expressed her confidence in Wen’s selection, stating, “When we heard Ming-Na doing that voice-over, we knew we had our Mulan,” in an interview with The Deseret News in 1998. Coats emphasized that Wen possesses a very likable and lovely voice, embodying the qualities they sought for Mulan, who represents bravery, honor, and determination. This casting decision played a crucial role in making Mulan a beloved character who resonates with viewers across generations.

6. The talented BD Wong was selected to voice the character of Captain Li Shang, a pivotal role in Mulan’s journey. However, it was the acclaimed singer Donny Osmond who lent his voice for the character’s powerful musical number “I’ll Make a Man Out of You.” Osmond’s involvement in the film was notable as he had also been considered for the role of the titular character in Disney’s animated classic Hercules. This collaboration added depth to Li Shang’s character, reinforcing the emotional stakes of Mulan’s story.

7. Interestingly, Jackie Chan provided the voice for Li Shang in the Chinese version of the movie, further showcasing the global appeal of the film. His involvement not only connected the character to Asian audiences but also highlighted the importance of cultural representation in animated storytelling. This casting choice underscores the film’s commitment to authenticity and respect for its cultural roots while appealing to a wider international audience.