Halle Bailey Cast as Ariel in Disney’s Live-Action “The Little Mermaid”

Walt Disney Studios has found its Ariel in singer Halle Bailey. The young actress and R&B vocalist is about to dive under the sea as she takes on the lead role in the upcoming live-action adaptation of Disney’s The Little Mermaid.

What’s happening:

  • Disney has announced that singer and actress, Halle Bailey has been cast as Ariel in the upcoming live-action reimagining of The Little Mermaid.
    • The film is directed by Rob Marshall and produced by:
    • Rob Marshall
    • John DeLuca
    • Marc Platt
    • Lin-Manuel Miranda
  • The film will feature beloved songs from the animated classic by Alan Menken and Howard Ashman, as well as new songs by Menken (music) and Miranda (lyrics).
  • Production is anticipated to begin in early 2020.
  • Additional announcements regarding The Little Mermaid are expected in the coming weeks.

About Halle Bailey:

  • Bailey is one part of the R&B duo Chloe X Halle along with her sister.
  • Last year Chloe X Halle recorded their debut album featuring their song “Warrior” that was used in Disney’s Wrinkle in Time. The sisters also filmed a music video for the song:

  • Her on screen credits include:
    • Grown-ish
    • Austin and Ally
    • Let it Shine
    • House of Payne

What they’re saying:

  • Director Rob Marshall: “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.”

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