Despite some unnecessary online backlash, live-action The Little Mermaid star Halle Bailey is excited to play the iconic mermaid and isn’t worried about negativity.
While speaking with Entertainment Tonight, Bailey spoke about her upcoming role.
“It means so much to me, I feel very honored and really grateful for the opportunity.”
“Ariel was one of my favorite princesses growing up so it’s a dream come true,” she added with a gleaming smile. “I’m very excited and happy.”
Variety also had the chance to speak to the 19 year old.
“I don’t pay attention to the negativity; I just feel like this role is something bigger than me”
Disney’s upcoming remake is putting together quite the cast. Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Men Tell No Tales star Javier Bardem is in talks to play Ariel’s father King Triton. One Direction star is circling the role of Prince Eric. Also joining the film are Melissa McCarthy, Jacob Tremblay, and Awkwafina who are set to play Ursula, Ariel’s best friend Flounder, and Scuttle.
As of right now, there is no release date for the film. However, production is expected to begin next January. We expect to hear more news on this project at Disney’s bi-annual D23 Expo this August.
Released in 1989, Disney’s animated classic centered on a young mermaid named Ariel, who is captivated by the world upon the surface. When she falls in love with a human prince, she makes a deal with a villainous sea witch to become human, herself, and earn his love before the agreed time runs out.
The movie grossed over $100 million at the US box office upon its initial release and won two Academy Awards for Best Song (“Under the Sea”) and Best Original Music Score for Alan Menken. It is credited as the film to have started the historic Disney Renaissance.
