Jude Weng

Since the announcement of Hidden Heroes: A Descendants Story, I’ve been flooded with messages from Descendants fans all over the world. So many of you have written asking questions, even pitching ideas for songs, costumes, props, and characters. While I am not able to review fan ideas, I’m super touched by your passion. Your love for this world is exactly why we’re working so hard to make something special. What I can share with you is why this movie means so much to me!

In 2012, I was fortunate enough to become a Disney/ABC Directing Fellow. At the time, I was leaving behind a career directing and showrunning competition television to chase a new dream: becoming a film and television director. During those early years as a Directing Fellow, I spent countless days walking the halls of the Disney Studios in Burbank, attending meetings, workshops, and building relationships.  A security guard named Jerry noticed I was always coming and going and asked me what I was working toward. I told him my dream was to become a Disney director one day.

He looked me right in the eye and said: 
You’re going to make it. I can tell.

From then on, every time our paths crossed, Jerry would ask how things were going, and cheer me on. Over the years, another wonderful security guard, Tish, became one of those familiar faces too, always greeting me with a warm smile and words of encouragement.

When I booked my first episode as a director for ABC, I couldn’t wait to tell Jerry and Tish. 
And when I found out I’d be directing Hidden Heroes, I couldn’t wait to share that news with them too.

Because behind every dream are people whose names may never appear in the credits, but whose kindness and encouragement help make those dreams possible, Hidden Heroes like Jerry and Tish.

This one’s for you. Thank you for the years of warmth, and kindness - it will stay with me for a lifetime.

I can’t wait to share Hidden Heroes: A Descendants Story with all of you!

#HiddenHeroes #Descendants @disneyfamily