H.E.R. has decided that she wants to be called by her real name moving forward.
The singer, who was born Gabriella Sarmiento Wilson, recently did an interview on ‘Good Morning America’ where she discussed her role as Belle in Beauty and The Beast: A 30th Celebration and the decision to be called by her real name.
“I’ve been re-finding my voice. Now I’m not wearing glasses. I can’t be acting and wearing glasses, so I think it’s time for people to really get to know the person behind H.E.R.,” she explained.
The “Rather Be” singer continued, “H.E.R. is me, but at the same time it’s a new chapter of my life, and I think I’m really finding that connection and I’m allowing people to see under the layers a little bit.”
Wilson has made history by becoming the first Black and Filipina woman to play the part of the Disney princess, Belle. “I never thought I could be a Disney princess. Of course, every little girl wants to be a Disney princess, but I’ve never seen one that looks like me, so I get to be that to little girls now.”
She went on to say, “That’s such a huge deal on top of being a producer on Beauty and the Beast, which is crazy. I got to do a lot of the new arrangements and work with Alan Menken, the original arranger, and producer. It’s been an amazing experience just learning so much about myself, and it’s been a lot of fun honestly.”
Beauty And The Beast: A 30th Celebration Special will premiere on ABC on December 15th. Watch the entire interview below.