Netflix has released an animated lyric video for “Someone to Hold,” the new single by pop star JENNIE, which serves as a centerpiece for the upcoming animated feature Steps. The song, marking the artist’s first contribution to an animated film, premiered late Tuesday night on Netflix’s Tudum platform ahead of the movie’s official streaming debut on November 20.
By integrating a major musical talent like JENNIE into the promotional rollout for Steps, Netflix is using her new single to promote its upcoming animated adventure. The animated lyric video provides a visual prelude to a story that aims to subvert the traditional Cinderella narrative by focusing on the perspectives of her stepsisters.
Quick Hits for the Steps Release
- The Music: JENNIE’s “Someone to Hold” is a dance-focused track described by producer Justin Tranter as “pure danceable joy.”
- The Plot: The film follows stepsisters Lilith and Margot as they navigate a kingdom thrown into chaos after stealing a magic wand.
- The Premiere: Steps is scheduled to arrive on Netflix on November 20, 2026.
JENNIE Joins the Steps Soundtrack with First Animated Feature Song
The debut of “Someone to Hold” marks JENNIE’s first song for an animated film. According to Netflix, the track is part of a larger musical tapestry that includes original songs from Rose Gray, Amanda Seyfried, and EMEI. The soundtrack’s primary musical direction is centered on dance music, a choice intended to mirror the energy of the film’s high-stakes adventure.
JENNIE expressed her enthusiasm for the project, noting that it was her first experience creating music specifically for an animated medium. “I am so excited to join the Steps family, and it was really fun making my first song for an animated film,” she stated, adding that she felt a deep connection to the “heart and personality” of the characters. JustJared.com reported that the lyric video features an animated version of the star herself, bridging the gap between the musical artist and the film’s visual world.
Justin Tranter, the songwriter and producer behind the track, emphasized that the story’s unique tone allowed for a wide variety of musical styles. He specifically highlighted JENNIE’s contribution for its infectious, upbeat nature. The production of the film also features a heavy-hitting creative team, including producers Amy Poehler, Jane Hartwell, and Kim Lessing, with Poehler and Lessing working under the Paper Kite Productions banner.
A Subversive Take on the Cinderella Mythos
While the traditional tale focuses on the ascent of Cinderella, Steps shifts the lens toward the complicated bond between sisters. The narrative, as detailed by Animation World Network, centers on Lilith (voiced by Ali Wong) and Margot (voiced by Stephanie Hsu). Tired of existing in the shadow of the famous princess, Lilith takes a drastic step by stealing the Fairy Godmother’s magic wand.
This act of rebellion triggers a cascade of consequences, leading to the rise of a villainous ruler named Priscilla, voiced by comedian Nikki Glaser. The film moves away from ballroom elegance into high-octane territory, featuring battles against “biker trolls” and escapes through the “Screaming Woods.” This shift in genre—from classic fairy tale to action-adventure—is supported by a diverse voice cast that includes Daniel Radcliffe, Peter Dinklage, and WWE star Damian Priest.
| Character | Voice Talent | Role in Steps |
|---|---|---|
| Lilith | Ali Wong | Cinderella’s stepsister seeking independence |
| Margot | Stephanie Hsu | Lilith’s sister and companion |
| Cinderella | Amanda Seyfried | The iconic princess forced into an unlikely alliance |
| Fairy Godmother | Bette Midler | A “bumbler” and “schemer” with good intentions |
| Priscilla | Nikki Glaser | The villainous schemer who seizes the throne |
| Cracktor | Damian Priest | An intimidating presence in the kingdom |
The Strategic Intersection of Animation and Pop Music
By releasing the lyric video on Tudum, Netflix is promoting JENNIE’s new single for Steps.
Director Alyce Tzue, a Student Academy Award gold medal winner, and co-director John Ripa (known for his work on Raya and the Last Dragon) are focusing on making the characters “three-dimensional” rather than archetypal. This approach seeks to move beyond the “good vs. evil” binary that often defines fairy tale adaptations.
The involvement of talent like Bette Midler and Daniel Radcliffe is part of the cast for Steps.
While the musical and casting details are now fully transparent, the specific streaming performance metrics and the potential for a wider theatrical rollout remain unconfirmed.
