Disney recently announced that Halle Bailey will star as Ariel in the upcoming live-action remake of The Little Mermaid—and I couldn’t be more excited! It’s such a powerful moment for young girls everywhere to see another princess of color on the big screen.
When The Princess and the Frog came out in 2009, I was already 13, and while I loved the idea of Tiana, I didn’t really get to experience that childhood magic of seeing someone who looked like me as a Disney princess. Having that kind of representation earlier would’ve meant the world.
Of course, the casting has sparked plenty of online discussion—some positive, some not so much. But it’s important to remember that The Little Mermaid is a fairytale, not a cultural story rooted in specific traditions like Pocahontas. While Hans Christian Andersen was Danish, Disney’s version of Ariel was never tied to that culture. It’s a timeless story of curiosity, love, and finding your voice—and Halle Bailey’s take on Ariel is simply an evolution of that story for a new generation.
I’m genuinely looking forward to watching this film in theaters. Seeing a Black actress step into such an iconic role feels monumental and long overdue. It also brings back fond memories of Brandy’s Cinderella—a magical, barrier-breaking performance that proved diversity belongs in every fairytale.
And don’t worry—we’ll always have the beloved animated Ariel too. But this new Little Mermaid promises to bring something fresh, inclusive, and inspiring. Here’s to singing along (again) to Part of Your World—this time with even more heart. 💙🧜🏽♀️
Cupcakes & Tea with Elizabeth 