Disney has just announced 19-year-old Halle Bailey as the new Ariel for, ‘The Little Mermaid’. In recent years, Disney has brought to us a seemingly endless quest of our favourite animated classics in the live-action movie realm. We last saw, The Jungle Book, Beauty and The Beast, Will Smith’s recent Aladdin and the much-anticipated movie after Endgame, The Lion King.
Bailey who was reportedly against stars like Zendaya and Chloe Grace Moretz when it came to the casting choice was made official with Disney announcing that the 19-year-old Halle Bailey is to play Ariel, the mermaid princess who dreams of becoming human after falling for a prince called Eric.
In a statement to Variety, Rob Marshall said, ‘’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’’.
Following the announcement, Halle Berry whose name got mixed up with the young star took to social media to congratulate Bailey while also clearing the air that Ariel won’t be her. In case you needed a reminder... Halles get it DONE. Congratulations @chloexhalle on this amazing opportunity, we can’t wait to see what you do!’’ Berry wrote.
In case you needed a reminder... Halles get it DONE. Congratulations @chloexhalle on this amazing opportunity, we can’t wait to see what you do! #TheLittleMermaid #HalleBailey pic.twitter.com/z0Rik2nxRe
— Halle Berry (@halleberry) July 3, 2019
this means the world. happy to share names with you ðŸ˜ðŸ˜ love you lots https://t.co/Wzkj8Mgsze
— chloe x halle (@chloexhalle) July 3, 2019
Bailey will reportedly be joined by Crazy Rich Asians‘ Awkwafina and Room‘s Jacob Trembley. While Melissa McCarthy is reportedly in talks to play the villainous Ursula.
Where do I sign? @Disney pic.twitter.com/ebcIiK2bwp
— |L I Z Z O| (@lizzo) June 28, 2019