Disney’s upcoming remake of The little Mermaid has made many fans excited to see the live-action remake of Ariel played through Halle Bailey. This could be especially true for young black kids, as evidenced by the viral videos of kids getting really excited to see Bailey’s new take on the character in the recently released teaser. But not everyone is thrilled with the casting, as she feels Ariel’s skin color shouldn’t have changed with her transition from animation to live-action. Some have criticized the casting on social media by using the hashtag #NotMyAriel.
Lin-Manuel Miranda, who acted as producer and co-wrote four new songs with Alan Menken, is not facing the casting complaints. As someone involved in the film who has seen Bailey in the role, Miranda completely disagrees with the idea that she wasn’t the best choice for the remake. Per VarietyMiranda spoke out about the situation at the L’Attitude conference in San Diego, comparing it to Brandy’s live-action casting Cinderella TV movie released in 1997.
“I’m old enough to remember being a game changer for my generation. And Rob Marshall was the choreographer and is now the director of the film. I’m really excited about that symmetry.”
Miranda is also ready to stop talking about the complaints about Bailey’s casting as Ariel, now convinced that the fan’s excitement far exceeds the criticism. The teaser trailer that reached 100 million views online just days after its premiere could certainly be an indication of that. Miranda is equally sure that Bailey is “perfect for the part” of Ariel, very happy with her in the role, despite what some are saying about it on social media platforms.
“I’m not interested in giving oxygen because I know which lives will be changed. Halle is perfect for the role. She’s going to blow them away. If that’s what makes you angry, then stay angry. But examine your choices.”
The original Ariel supports Halle Bailey
Don’t count Ariel’s original voice, Jodi Benson, as a supporter of Halle Bailey. While there were people online who criticized Bailey’s casting and noted their preference for Benson, Benson herself disagreed, taking to her Instagram Stories amid the controversy to share the following post.
“So excited!!! So excited!!! Halle, you were absolutely amazing! I am SO proud of you and your wonderful achievement as Ariel! It was so great to celebrate with your family here at #d23expo! And to the brilliant director, Rob Marshall… I am so grateful for our friendship of over 35 years. Thank you for making such a wonderful movie!”
In her response, Bailey said the compliment “means the world” to her, adding that Benson “made Ariel magical for us!”
The little Mermaid will be released in theaters on May 26, 2023. Despite the criticism, there’s a good chance the film will hit big numbers at the box office, given all the publicity it’s already generated.