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Disney Casts Halle Bailey As Ariel In Its Live-Action Remake Of ‘The Little Mermaid’

#BlackGirlMagic: Can I get a “yesssss” for representation? Halle from #ChloeXHalle has been cast as Ariel in #Disney’s next live-action adaptation of “The Little Mermaid.”

Apparently sis blew director #RobMarshall away, as she’s been a front runner for the role from the beginning, @variety reports.

“After an extensive search, it was abundantly clear that Halle possesses that rare combination of spirit, heart, youth, innocence, and substance — plus a glorious singing voice — all intrinsic qualities necessary to play this iconic role,” Marshall said in a statement.

I don’t know about y’all, but I’m excited to hear the songs with Halle singing Ariel’s songs as the new film will incorporate the original pieces from the 1989 animated hit as well as some new bops. Halle’s joining a star-studded cast, which already includes Awkwafina and Jacob Tremblay. Although there is much talk about who should play #Ursula on Twitter, Disney has been in talks with Melissa McCarthy to fill that role.

The new songs for the film will come from original composer Alan Menken and “Hamilton” creator Lin-Manuel Miranda. Miranda is also one of the producers on the film.

In case y’all need a refresher, the original 1989 animated feature followed the mermaid princess Ariel as she sought to fall in love with a human prince on land. 

Menken wrote the film’s original music, which includes the songs “Under the Sea,” “Part of Your World” and “Kiss the Girl.”

Halle’s role marks her feature film debut but I’m sure y’all have seen her on FreeForm’s “Grown-ish” alongside her sister Chloe and Yara Shahidi.

We’re curious to see who else will be cast in this adaptation. Other Disney films that have been adapted into live-action features include: “The Lion King,” “The Jungle Book,” “Beauty and the Beast,” and  “Aladdin,” which starred Will Smith as the Genie.

Are you excited about Halle playing Ariel in “The Little Mermaid?” Let us know!

 

Christina Calloway