Exploring the Cast of the Upcoming Live-Action ‘The Little Mermaid’

The beloved story of The Little Mermaid is set to receive a brand-new live-action adaptation, with an impressive cast bringing the beloved characters to life. From talented newcomers to well-known actors, the ensemble casts promise to captivate audiences as the tale returns to the big screen.

The 1989 Classic

First, let's take a brief look at the iconic 1989 animated version of The Little Mermaid. In this classic movie, Jodi Benson portrayed the iconic role of Ariel, giving voice to the young mermaid who dreams of the human world. Her counterpart, Prince Eric, was brought to life by Christopher Daniel Barnes. Pat Carroll lent both her speaking and singing voice to the wicked sea witch, Ursula, earning her an Academy Award for the iconic song Kiss the Girl. Other notable characters were played by:

Sebastian (Rene Auberjonois/Zachary Levi): A scoundrel crab who serves as Ariel's best friend and confidante. Scuttle (Sam Whipple/Ty Nerius): A friendly seagull who provides important information about the human world. King Triton (Kenneth Mars/John Joseph): The ruler of the ocean and Ariel's father, who is both protective and authoritative. Flounder (Jason Marin/Carlos Manosalvas): Ariel’s loyal fish friend. Grimsby (Jeff Bennett/Kenneth Mars): A forgetful and cranky former prince.

Each of these characters played a significant role in shaping the narrative and providing unique voices to the animated feature.

The New Live-Action Adaptation

Now, fast forward to the present day, where Disney is planning a new live-action adaptation of The Little Mermaid. The casting details for this modern take are particularly exciting, as it involves:

Aulii Cravalho in the Role of Ariel

Aulii Cravalho, known for her role as Moana in Disney's animated feature, will play the titular character Ariel. Her dynamic performance is expected to captivate audiences, just as Jodi Benson did in the 1989 version.

Shaggy in the Role of Sebastian

To add a modern twist, the iconic rapper Shaggy has been cast as Sebastian, the wise-cracking crab. This choice highlights Disney's commitment to blending traditional stories with contemporary humor and entertainment.

Queen Latifah as Ursula

Perhaps the most anticipated casting decision is for Ursula, the evil sea witch. The legendary rapper and actress Queen Latifah will bring a fresh and powerful interpretation to the role. Her ability to infuse depth and menace into Ursula is sure to make for a memorable villain.

Non-Disney Version

Besides the Disney version, there is a non-Disney adaptation that is worth mentioning. This darker, possibly more mature version of The Little Mermaid is set within a traveling circus and features a more complex and action-oriented storyline. While it promises a different perspective and style, it is the Disney adaptation that captures public attention with its legacy and wide appeal.

Final Thoughts

The The Little Mermaid live-action adaptation is not just a retelling of an old story; it's a fresh interpretation that combines beloved characters with new faces and modern storytelling techniques. Whether you're a fan of the original or a newcomer to the tale, this adaptation promises to deliver an enchanting experience that resonates with both children and adults.