Jodi Benson played Ariel in the 1989 animated film that successfully revived people’s love for Disney movies. Benson herself has been very supportive of the new versions of The Little Mermaid and she took to Instagram to praise Halle Bailey’s performance that appeared briefly in the new movie’s teaser. In turn, Bailey reposted the message on his own Instagram account. “Halle, you were absolutely amazing! I’m SO proud of you and your beautiful performance as Ariel,” Benson wrote. “It was so wonderful to celebrate with your family here at #d23expo.”
Benson also praised director Rob Marshall for his work. “And to the brilliant director Rob Marshall… I’m so thankful for our friendship of over 35 years. Thank you for creating such a stunning film!!” she wrote. We’re loving the reaction to Halle Bailey’s performance in The Little Mermaid’s brief teaser. After all, it’s clear that Bailey is owning her role as Ariel and making her mark on the part. If Jodi Benson approves, it pretty much confirms that this will be a film we all need to watch. The Little Mermaid is directed by Rob Marshall and also stars Jonah Hauer-King as Prince Eric, Melissa McCarthy as Ursula, Javier Bardem as King Triton, Daveed Diggs as Sebastian, Jacob Tremblay as Flounder, and Awkwafina as Scuttle. The film will also introduce new characters who did not appear in the animated flick. The Little Mermaid will premiere in theaters on May 26, 2023.
