Ah yes, the Harry Styles as Prince Eric confusion is finally over as he has confirmed what trades reported that he left Disney’s live-action adaptation of The Little Mermaid, after we were informed incorrectly that he had officially signed on the project, which we apologized for.
In a recent interview with The Face, the former One Direction singer confirmed he was indeed up for the role, and explained why he ultimately decided to pass on the highly sought after role.
It was discussed,” he says of the project, before quickly changing gears. “I want to put music out and focus on that for a while. But everyone involved in it was amazing, so I think it’s going to be great. I’ll enjoy watching it, I’m sure.
So now that Harry Styles isn’t in the running for the role, who is Disney looking at now? Shazam! star Asher Angel revealed back in July that he had auditioned, but from what we’ve heard he isn’t the studios ideal choice due to his age. 13 Reasons Why actor Christian Navarro confirmed on Twitter he also has auditioned for the role, however, based on everything I have heard about the Eric character Navarro is too old.
So who would be the perfect fit? We have heard Jordan Fisher is the name to watch, as he has a working relationship with the studio, and studio executives LOVE him, it is unknown if he’s auditioned for the role at this time.
Halle Bailey will play the title character, Ariel. Also in talks to join Disney’s upcoming remake is Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Men Tell No Tales star Javier Bardem is in talks to play Ariel’s father King Triton Melissa McCarthy, Jacob Tremblay, and Awkwafina who are circling Ursula, Ariel’s best friend Flounder, and Scuttle.
Alan Menken (Aladdin) and Lin-Manuel Miranda (Moana) will be remastering the music from the original film, while also adding brand new songs, which would include one a new solo for Prince Eric… that’s what we hear that is.
The Little Mermaid will be directed by Rob Marshall and production is expected to begin in January in the Caribbean.
Source: The Face
