Princess Protection Program: The Princesses Grace Toronto
The North American premiere of Disney’s Princess Protection Program arrived in Toronto with a whirl of red carpet energy and high anticipation. The film, set to air on Family Channel tonight at 8:00 p.m. ET/PT, marked a starry night on June 18 as reporters caught up with the cast, watched the movie, and joined the VIP After Party. The moment also offered a chance to chat with the two leads, Demi Lovato and Selena Gomez, about their roles, the film’s themes, and what lies ahead for each of them in music and film.
The Red Carpet
The red carpet unfolded with undeniable sparkle and momentum. Attendees included the cast of The Latest Buzz, the actors from Overruled, two Gregarious Camp Rock alumni, a handful of Life with Derek friends, and a notable presence from Desperate Housewives represented by Madison De La Garza. Demi Lovato and Selena Gomez stood out as the evening shone around them, while other familiar faces posed and chatted with reporters. Here are some voices from the night:
What was it like working with the Jonas Brothers?
Daniel spoke of a fun experience, describing the Jonas Brothers as pleasant, talented young men who made the set feel easy and enjoyable. Jordan added that they were cool and full of personality, a reminder that set life can feel like friends hanging out, not just work.
LIFE WITH DEREK
What other projects were on the horizon for the cast? Michael announced the LIFE WITH DEREK universe expanding with a Vacation with Derek movie, and hinted at a Montreal shoot for a new TV series, 18 to Life. Ashley shared that she had wrapped a project inspired by the classic Dirty Dancing and spoke highly of the experience, calling it fantastic. The film, a blend of humor and adventure, offered a snapshot of the actors’ evolving careers as they balanced auditions and new roles.
The Movie
Princess Protection Program follows Rosalinda Marie Montoya Fiore, brought to life by Demi Lovato, a princess-in-waiting who faces danger to the crown. Her mother enrolls her in the top secret Princess Protection Program and she ends up living as a normal teenager under a new name, Rosie Gonzalez. She moves in with Carter Mason, portrayed by Selena Gomez. Carter’s job is to help Rosie blend into everyday teen life, even as Rosie unknowingly helps Carter discover her own inner princess. Despite their different worlds, the two forge a strong friendship that helps them navigate high school drama, bullies, and crushes. Together, they work to thwart a shadowy group in Rosie’s homeland that aims to prevent her from becoming queen.
The Interviews
In conversations with Lovato and Gomez, the focus shifted to their characters, the idea of a perfect Prince Charming, the strength of their friendship, and what’s next for both stars. Lovato described her character as a princess who has lived a life of privilege yet learns to adapt and grow without losing her core kindness. Gomez characterized her role as a tomboy who is uncovering her true self, helped along by her friend. The two offered a candid look at how their on-screen bond mirrors the trust and lifelong friendship they share in real life.
Two potential Princes Charming also came into view. Lovato suggested charm is nice, but the heart, humor, and maturity matter most. Gomez stressed that a partner who is smart, kind, and well-regarded by one’s parents is a meaningful match.
The central message of the movie revolves around unlikely friendship: two people from different backgrounds learning from one another and discovering common ground. Lovato hoped that audiences would take away a sense of openness and acceptance, while Gomez encouraged viewers to watch with a close friend and to avoid judging others based on background or circumstance.
The most awkward moments on set offered lighthearted memories. Lovato recalled a time she had to speak Spanish and wasn’t confident in pronunciation, which prompted laughter when she watched the footage. Gomez laughed at the idea that days on set with Lovato felt like being with a best friend; she described their collaboration as a joyful, effortless experience.
Memorable moments included the last day of filming, when the two shared a hug and reflected on their journey, and a serene balcony scene on a lakeside set that felt magical as the weather cooperated. They talked about favorite scenes that showcased their characters’ personalities: one moment where the duo walks together and playfully burps, and another where a character tries on a string of dresses, with a final dramatic reveal of a stunning gown that captured the room’s attention.
On the question of working with the other, Gomez described the experience as more like hanging out with a best friend than a job, and she emphasized the everyday joy of collaborating with someone she trusts deeply. Lovato teased a future where fans would see more of their friends’ dynamic as their careers progress into new film projects and music releases.
The cast members were asked about their own dreams beyond the film. Lovato hinted at college ambitions and a busy tour schedule alongside CAMP ROCK 2, while Gomez looked ahead to a sprawling slate of projects and a continued rise in her music career. They closed by recalling the enduring friendship that began years earlier at a shared audition and has since grown into a powerful bond, underscored by mutual respect and admiration.
Thank you to Selena and Demi for sharing their stories and spirit from the premiere and the film’s journey toward audiences in Canada and the United States.