Why Did Disney Change Ariel's Skin Color in The Little Mermaid Live-Action?

It is a loaded question in today's society to ponder why the iconic character Ariel, from Disney's The Little Mermaid, was given a new, darker skin color in the live-action remake. Knowing why Halle Bailey, both because of her amazing vocal performance but also because of her decision to play the role, is at the heart of this debate. To truly understand this shift, let's first revisit my memories of the original animated film.

My Childhood with The Little Mermaid

I first saw the original The Little Mermaid animated film when it was released in theaters in 1989, at the age of 10. Thirty-five years later, that movie was a significant part of my childhood. I remember all the core memories, including our dad taking my sisters and me to Long John Silver's afterward, which seemed so hilariously out of place in that era. Suffice to say, I was an active participant in the world of Ariel's undersea adventures.

Why Change the Character?

There seems to be a politically correct answer suggesting that the decision was made to find “the right actress for the job.” Halle Bailey's performance in the live-action remake of a classic animated film was undoubtedly top-notch. She did everything one could expect, particularly given the challenges of adapting a beloved animated film into a more modern, live-action interpretation with significant CGI elements.

However, the decision to cast a young black woman like Halle Bailey raises deeper questions. Is it just about casting the “right” actress, or is there a more strategic and business-oriented reason behind it? This brings us to the core of the matter—the influence of marketing and broadening Disney's audience base.

Marketing Strategy and Casting Choice

Disneys' strategy of casting Halle Bailey in the lead role was more about tapping into a market they had historically ignored: individuals from non-white ethnicities. This decision was undoubtedly not made lightly, as it required balancing the diverse community's expectations with their global brand. The casting buzz alone pushed the film to the forefront of discussions on social media, creating a significant marketing opportunity.

The backlash also provides a window into the power of public opinion and how it shapes media narratives. When casting news broke, it sparked vehement debates and critical opinions, further amplifying the film's presence on various platforms. While there were certainly arguments made about issues such as how a mermaid would look with dark skin, the central issue remained the broader implications of casting for diversity and representation in media.

Paying Off the Marketing Strategy

Despite all the buzz surrounding the casting decision and the subsequent chord it struck with audiences, the film's financial performance didn't quite meet expectations. The budget for the remake was 240.2 million dollars, while it earned 569.6 million both internationally and domestically. While this indicates some success, the financials also reflect the complicated nature of marketing such a high-profile remake in a time when people were less likely to flock to theaters.

The film's streaming performance and merchandise success seem to suggest that its appeal is more lasting and diverse in nature. The critical and commercial reception of the film is a testament to both Halle Bailey's performance and Disney's strategic approach to leveraging casting choices in a competitive media landscape.

Conclusion

The decision to change Ariel's skin color in the live-action version of The Little Mermaid was a multifaceted one, balancing artistic integrity with the strategic imperatives of marketing and broadening the audience base. While it sparked significant debate and some controversy, it ultimately highlighted the evolving nature of representation in media and how casting decisions resonate with a global audience.