When it comes to casting Prince Eric for the live-action remake of The Little Mermaid, it would seem that Disney only wants to head in “One Direction.” All kidding aside, Harry Styles is reportedly in talks for the role of the prince.
Getty Images' Photofest | Via The Hollywood Reporter
What’s happening:
- Singer and actor Harry Styles is reportedly in early negotiations to play the role of Prince Eric in Disney’s The Little Mermaid remake according to The Hollywood Reporter.
- Styles is likely best known for being part of the English-Irish boy band One Direction, who officially disbanded in 2016.
- Styles made his acting debut in 2017’s Dunkirk playing the role of Alex. THR writes that he recently auditioned for the lead in Baz Luhrmann’s Elvis biopic, although it was announced just this week that Austin Butler won the role.
- While Eric’s character in the animated film didn’t actually sing, the now-closed Broadway production featured the royal performing two solos and a few ensembles.
- While Disney hasn’t revealed much information about the live-action film, we do know that Alan Menken and Lin-Manuel Miranda are working on music for this iteration.
- Additionally, Disney confirmed the casting of singer Halle Bailey as Ariel, so it’s easy to speculate that musical numbers will play a big role in the upcoming film.
ICYMI:
- Jacob Tremblay and Awkwafina have reportedly joined the cast as the voice of Flounder and Scuttle respectively.
- Comedian Melissa McCarthy is also in talks to play the sea witch, Ursula.
- Rob Marshall has been tapped to helm the film and will also produce along with:
- John DeLuca
- Marc Platt
- Lin-Manuel Miranda
For more news about the live-action The Little Mermaid, visit our guide page.