Halle Bailey grew up with the Disney princess Ariel from the 1989 animated picture, much like every other girl her age all over the world. For her, Ariel was a symbol of hope, adventure, and love. She never imagined that one day, she would be taking on the lead part in the live-action adaptation of The Little Mermaid, despite facing backlash over some differences in appearance.
Originally voiced by Jodi Benson, Ariel had a heavenly singing voice, huge blue eyes, and a sea of red hair that moved with the tides. Nevertheless, Halle’s casting as Ariel marked a significant milestone for representation in Hollywood and ignited a broader conversation about diversity and inclusivity in the entertainment industry.
Ariel Found Another Purpose
The winds of change are blowing in the live-action adaptation of The Little Mermaid, and it’s not just in the casting. Halle Bailey, who will play Ariel in the upcoming movie, revealed that the story would take a more inclusive and empowering turn. In an interview, the actress shared her excitement for the new perspective on the classic tale.
According to Bailey, the movie will not just be about Ariel wanting to leave the ocean for a boy but also explore the mermaid’s inner desires, purpose, and quest for freedom. With the refreshing shift in the storyline, viewers can expect to see a more dynamic and empowered version of Ariel, one who is not defined by a romantic interest but by her aspirations and ambitions.
Pushing Her Boundaries as An Actress
For Halle Bailey, filming The Little Mermaid was not without its share of bumps. The actress recently admitted that filming the underwater journey was physically and emotionally draining. For over a year, Bailey was subjected to harsh filming circumstances at London’s Pinewood Studios.
On other days, she spent up to 13 hours submerged or harnessed. Bailey overcame the obstacles by pushing herself to her limits and growing due to the ordeal. She talked about her experience working on the set and how the mermaid’s message of finding one’s power struck a chord with her. Indeed, taking on this role was more than just another work; it was a life-changing event!
Ignoring the Negative Comments on Social Media
Halle Bailey’s unshakable confidence and resilience in the face of racist backlash are admirable. The actress has been the target of criticism ever since she was cast as Ariel in The Little Mermaid, with some fans arguing that a white actress should play the iconic character.
Yet, Bailey remains unfazed by the hate and credits her upbringing and family for her strength. Growing up in the Deep South, Bailey has faced racism and discrimination firsthand. However, her grandparents, who come from a town named after a plantation slaveholder, have instilled a sense of pride and resilience in her.
A Path to Self-Discovery
There’s a strange and beautiful convergence between Halle Bailey’s life and the character she’s playing in The Little Mermaid. As a child, Bailey pretended to be Ariel in the swimming pool, and now she’s embodying the character on the big screen. It’s a coincidence that feels like fate, or even divine intervention, to the actress. Bailey sees parallels between her journey and Ariel’s, particularly when it comes to bravery, self-discovery, and pushing through fear.
For Bailey, playing Ariel is more than just a role; it’s a chance to connect with something more profound and to explore the idea that sometimes, the things we long for the most are the things we’re most afraid to pursue.