Tuesday, 18 August 2026 - 9 minutes
From courage and resilience to kindness and confidence, generations of children have grown up watching Disney Princesses. But how much can those characters actually teach young girls today?
In the latest episode of The MarshyCast, I caught up with Motsi Mabuse from Strictly Come Dancing as part of Disney Princess Week to talk about the lessons children can take from some of Disney's most famous characters.
Our conversation came as research highlighted the qualities parents and grandparents most want young girls to develop, including confidence and resilience.
We talked about how Disney Princesses have evolved over the years and the different characteristics they can demonstrate, whether that's having the courage to take on a challenge, believing in yourself or showing kindness towards others.
As a mum herself, Motsi also revealed which Princesses are favourites with her own daughter and what she thinks children can take away from the stories they watch.
Naturally, having a Strictly Come Dancing judge in front of me presented an opportunity I couldn't resist.
If the Disney Princesses swapped their castles for the Strictly ballroom, which one would receive a perfect 10 from Motsi?
There are certainly plenty of contenders, but her answer might not be the Princess you're expecting!
It's a fun conversation about parenting, confidence, childhood favourites and what some of Disney's most famous characters can still teach the next generation.
🎧 Hear my full conversation with Motsi Mabuse now on The MarshyCast, available on Apple, Spotify and wherever you get your podcasts.
Find me on all social media @paulswampymarsh
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Paul Barton joined Paul Marsh in the studio
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