Chloe X Halle Singer Halle Bailey Cast as Ariel in ‘The Little Mermaid’ Remake
Halle Bailey’s wildest dreams are coming true. The young singer, one half of the Grammy-nominated Chloe X Halle, has just been cast as Ariel in Disney’s upcoming live-action remake of The Little Mermaid.
This will be the 19-year-old’s first feature film, though she has appeared on Freeform’s series Grown-ish alongside her sister, while also singing on the series’ theme song “Grown.” Bailey and her sister were Best New Artist nominees earlier this year at the Grammy Awards.
Director Rob Marshall’s cast is coming together with the casting of Bailey in the lead role. Melissa McCarthy, Awkwafina and Jacob Tremblay have also been in talks for roles in the upcoming remake.
Ariel is the daughter of King Triton of Atlantica, who makes the rebellious move to join the human world, marrying Prince Eric after she rescued him from a shipwreck.
"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,” said Marshall in a statement.
Bailey responded to the news on Twitter, with a post simply stating, “Dream come true.”
Marshall will be joined by the musical team of Alan Menken and Lin-Manuel Miranda while working on the project. An early 2020 production start is expected.
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