Halle Bailey Speaks Out on Backlash Over 'The Little Mermaid' Casting

Three years after her starring role as Ariel in the live-action adaptation of Disney’s The Little Mermaid, Halle Bailey is reflecting on her experience with online hate.

Immediately following Bailey’s casting, internet forums erupted into outrage over a Black woman portraying the red-haired princess. In an interview with TheIndependent, Bailey opened up about the ordeal, admitting that despite the persistent backlash, she does not regret the role.

Bailey described The Little Mermaid as “a beautiful experience for me—and I feel like it taught me to listen to myself and the good voices inside. I learnt how to block out the noise.” The “noise” refers to the onslaught of racist remarks made against her during the film’s promotional period, including the viral #NotMyAriel hashtag.

Following her award-winning role, Bailey admitted that she views the situation as a catalyst for personal growth, using the experience to free herself from the weight of outside opinions.

“It was actually freeing to be in the middle of this conversation where so many different opinions were coming in, and they were so opposite from one another… I felt like I was watching myself inside a cup, seeing how people react to it… Growing up in the industry can really develop your sense of self, and for me, it keeps me grounded in a way. I know for some people it’s the opposite but I just always think to myself, ‘None of this is real,’” said Bailey.

Today, Bailey is preparing for the release of her upcoming romantic comedy, You, Me & Tuscany. The film stars Bailey and Bridgeton standout Regé-Jean Page, marking her first feature role since the birth of her son, Halo.

Bailey noted that her upcoming role as Anna feels like a step into womanhood, emphasizing how much her perspective has shifted. “This feels like the first time where I’m stepping into my womanhood. It felt cool because it reflected me now. You know, I have a baby. I do feel like I’m an official adult woman.”

You, Me & Tuscany is slated for theatrical release this Friday, April 10, 2026.

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