Disney's Live Action Reimagining 'The Little Mermaid' Casts Halle Bailey as Ariel
Halle Bailey of the R&B duo Chloe x Halle will be in the starring role for Disney's latest live-action reimagining.
Bailey will play the role of Ariel, the daughter of King Triton who wants to live on the land where the people are. The decision for Halle Bailey to play the role was made today.
The Little Mermaid is ramping up its casting process as Melissa McCarthy is in talks to play the villain Ursula. Awkwafina and Jacob Tremblay have been cast as the roles of Scuttle and Flounder.
The Little Mermaid is gearing up for a 2020 production start date. Rob Marshall is set to direct. Marshall is coming off directing Mary Poppins Returns for Disney.
"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,” said director Rob Marshall about the casting of Halle Bailey as Ariel.
The 1989 classic was directed by Ron Clements and John Musker, with the music coming from Alan Menken and Howard Ashman.
Rob Marshall, Marc Platt, Lin-Manuel Miranda, and Jon DeLuca are producing. Lin-Manuel Miranda is also teaming up with Alan Menken for new music for this reimagining.
