| Asha | |
|---|---|
| Wish character | |
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| First appearance | Once Upon a Studio (2023) |
| Created by | Jennifer Lee Chris Buck Allison Moore Fawn Veerasunthorn |
| Voiced by | Ariana DeBose |
| In-universe information | |
| Occupation | Tour guide Fairy godmother |
| Family |
|
| Home | Kingdom of Rosas |
Asha is a fictional character and the protagonist of the animated film Wish (2023) produced by Walt Disney Animation Studios. She is voiced by American actress Ariana DeBose. Her origins lie in a conversation between Jennifer Lee and Chris Buck, while working together on Frozen II. The screenplay was written by Lee and Allison Moore. Asha is an ordinary 17-year-old girl who lives in Rosas, a kingdom ruled by King Magnifico (Chris Pine), a powerful sorcerer. After initially applying to become his apprentice, she begins to question his control of his subjects' wishes.
Breaking from the traditions of Disney Princesses, Asha was designed to be a modern heroine, having no romantic interest or royal status. Her design takes inspiration from the Amazigh, particularly her box braids. Her characterisation was designed following the writing of the song "This Wish" in 2020 by songwriter Julia Michaels. The song expresses her desire for a better future for the people of Rosas, resulting in a magical being named Star falling from the sky. The star's magic gives the creatures of the forest their own voices, including her pet goat, Valentino. With the star's magic and the support of her friends, she leads an uprising against the tyrannical rule of Magnifico.
Asha received a mixed response from critics. Her appearance as a biracial teenager and her qualities as a leader and strong female character were praised. Conversely, she received criticism for her limited characterisation, with several critics considering her to have few memorable character traits. For her vocal performance, DeBose received several film award nominations.