Disney has found their Ariel for the live-action 'Little Mermaid' remake but fans are very confused!

Publish Date: Thursday, 4 July 2019, 12:02PM

Disney has FINALLY found their mermaid princess for the upcoming live-action remake of the '80s animated movie, The Little Mermaid.

Announcing the news today, the media powerhouse revealed that 19-year-old singer and actress Halle Bailey is set to take on the iconic role of Ariel.

Director Rob Marshall – known for his work on Mary Poppins Returns – said of Halle's casting: "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."

Halle’s acting credits include Last Holiday, Let It Shine and most recently the TV series Grown-ish.

She is also known as one half of R&B duo Chloe x Halle – who went viral for their cover of Beyonce’s song Pretty Hurts in 2013.

However, the casting choice has left some Disney fans unimpressed.

While many expressed their love for Disney's casting of a person of colour in the leading role, others were concerned that it wouldn't be the same as the red-headed Ariel from the original 1989 film.

"Ariel is iconic because of her red hair," one disgruntled fan wrote on Instagram.

"Why cast someone who clearly looks nothing like the original?"

"I’m all for inclusion, but come on. I was hoping for Madelaine Petsch or something," another commenter added, suggesting the redheaded Riverdale star should have been considered.

Madelaine Petsch.

Earlier this week, it was also revealed that comedian Melissa McCarthy was up for the role of The Little Mermaid's villain, Ursala the sea witch.

The Little Mermaid news comes after the success of Disney's recent release of their live-action Aladdin and the upcoming The Lion King movie, which will hit cinemas July 17.

Take your Radio, Podcasts and Music with you