why are elsa and anna not considered disney princesses

Why Elsa and Anna Aren't Disney Princesses

By Thomas MooreOctober 30, 2025

When Disney fans gather to discuss their cherished animated films, a name that consistently sparks debate is the absence of Elsa and Anna from the official Disney Princess line-up. Despite being beloved characters from "Frozen," the sisters remain unofficially part of the Disney Princess canon. But why?

Delving into the intricacies of Disney's official princess protocol uncovers several reasons, primarily related to the evolution of the Disney Princess brand and its current content strategy.

The Evolution of Disney Princesses

The Disney Princess franchise began in the 1990s, initially featuring only regal characters whorequired rescue. As the brand grew, so did its criteria, leading to the now-popularized "20 rules of a Disney Princess."

Anna and Elsa Are NOT Disney Princesses?!

the frozen princesses are all in their own names and pictures, but there is no image

there are four different pictures of the same character in frozen princesses, and one is pointing

However, the rules aren't set in stone. They've evolved, especially with the 2021 incoming of "Raya and the Last Dragon's" Sisu, who doesn't fit the traditional mold. So why not Elsa and Anna?

Origin and Qualifications

Let's start at the beginning. Unlike other Disney Princesses, Elsa and Anna aren't royalty by birth. They become queens but aren't officially princesses until their coronation. Moreover, they don't tick every box of the 20 rules. They don't wear ball gowns or sing about princes, and their main story arcs don't revolve around romantic love—oh, the irony.

an image of disney princesses with their names in each one's face and numbers on the other

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But does this exclude them completely? Not quite. As mentioned, rules have been bent before.

Frozen's Place in Disney History

For many, the omission of Elsa and Anna is puzzling. After all, "Frozen" is one of Disney's most successful film franchises, with immense cultural impact. Yet, it seems Disney has other plans for Elsa and Anna's canon placement.

In 2016, they were included in the Disney Parks' "Frozen" attraction, "Frozen Ever After." They also headline a Disney Cruise Line ship, the Disney Wish, slated for summer 2022. They're clearly beloved characters, but their position lies outside the traditional Disney Princess brand.

The Future of Elsa and Anna

So, where does this leave our icy duo? While not officially Disney Princesses, they've been inducted into the Disney Princess vacation experiences. This could indicate a unique path for Elsa and Anna, one that doesn't require them to conform to the traditional Disney Princess mold.

In essence, Disney is evolving, not only in its princess rules but also in its portrayal of women. Elsa and Anna may be breaking the mold, but they're also paving the way for a new kind of Disney heroine—one defined not merely by a crown or a kiss, but by her strength, agency, and love for her sister.

So, while you might not spot Elsa and Anna on a Disney Princess lunchbox anytime soon, rest assured they're not lacking in love or recognition. After all, they've taught us, "Let it go," and sometimes, that's exactly what makes a character enduringly special.