Entertainment

The 'PLL' Cast Can Really, Really Sing

by Leah Marilla Thomas

While we all go over plot holes, unravel anagrams, and list unanswered questions in anticipation of Pretty Little Liars Season 6B, I have a slightly lighter point to bring up. Did you know that the cast of Pretty Little Liars can sing? They're all so talented that I'm pretty sure we need to have a Pretty Little Liars musical.

It wouldn't be too out of the question for this show, either. In fact, the possibility of a PLL musical episode has been mentioned in the past. The cast and creators discussed their desire to do one at PaleyFest in 2014, and executive producer Oliver Goldstick said it's not impossible, it would just take longer to produce — which on a show that seems to be on all year, must be a time concern. There were also rumors of ballet and singing taking centre stage (no pun intended) on Pretty Little Liarsback in 2011. Such an episode wouldn't be too out of the question. Season 4 had the all black and white, film noir themed episode "Shadow Play." There have been plenty of musical moments on the show, and even a choreographed dance sequence featuring Maddie Ziegler. Why not go all out?

The cast has a range of musical backgrounds, from recording careers to live performance. As someone who was on the edges of the musical theatre fandom in the mid-2000s, it's so funny for me to see Vanessa RAy on television because I know her as part of Andrew's Blog, an early webseries from Andrew Keenan-Bolger that chronicled, among other things, the touring cast on The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee, in which she played Olive. If you add up all the great pipes and musical chops in this cast, a themed episode seems inevitable.

Lucy Hale

This one's a given, and she has sung on the show. We know that Aria has a music career IRL and that singing is one of Lucy Hale's greatest passions. Personally, I can't wait to hear her cover of "Let It Go" with Rascal Flatts for the We Love Disney compilation album.

Troian Bellisario

You can find some more relaxed jam sessions on Youtube, but I like how simple she is here singing a French song. While Bellisario is self-described as more of a music fan than a musician herself, it's definitely something she could pursue or explore artistically. What a lovely voice!

Ashley Benson & Shay Mitchell

There are a lot of videos online of these two goofing off and singing in the car, but this one is my favorite. It's exactly as well as I know the lyrics to "Kiss Me," if I were put to the test. Fun fact, Shay Mitchell is related to Lea Salonga, the singing voice of both Princess Jasmine and Mulan. Perhaps she could make guest appearance? Plus, thanks to the magic of Moms, we know that Ashley Benson can tap dance pretty well, too.

Tyler Blackburn

Another pro, Caleb himself has a few music videos, but here's him singing a classic live. Tyler Blackburn has also dabbled in recording for various projects and his songs have been featured on the episodes before.

Sasha Pieterse

To keep mixing up the genres, Pieterse has more of a country music career (similar-ish to Hale) and has released several singles.

Vanessa Ray

Here's Big A in the flesh, Cece, singing this fun arrangement of "Holding Out For A Hero" and "Let's Here It For The Boy" from Footloose. It's not so threatening to think about A singing songs about middle school, is it? There are a few other clips of her online, including my favorite — "Perfect" by Pasek and Paul, in which you really see how greAt of an actress she is.

Keegan Allen

Bonus! He's not only known to rock some Taylor Swift, but he plays the guitar as well. Will the talents of this cast never cease?