The decision to cast a non-white actor as The Little Mermaid's Ariel resulted in a predictable level of backlash, but we'd say Halle Bailey proved all the haters wrong.
Now, Disney Branded Television has confirmed (via Toonado.com) they've greenlit a new animated series titled Disney Junior's Ariel. While not a direct prequel to the live-action movie, it's clearly heavily inspired by that and the original 1989 classic.
That's evident from Ariel's appearance and a Flounder who looks identical to the version from the cartoon. King Triton, Ursula, and Sebastian are all also set to appear alongside some exciting new additions.
"Set in the fantastical Caribbean-inspired underwater kingdom of Atlantica, the series turns on Ariel and her fun-filled, action-packed mermaid adventures with her friends," reads the synopsis. "Driven by a deep and unending curiosity about the world around her, Ariel discovers land treasures, like a big floppy hat, squeaky rubber ducky and whisk, that she collects and keeps safe in her crystal cavern."
“Full of charm, big ideas and a powerful voice, 'Disney Junior’s Ariel' is coming into her own, learning how to discover and appreciate the world around her and use her voice to inspire others."
In a move which is sure to shift a lot of merchandise, when Ariel finds those treasures, she's filled with joy and has a mermaid tail which "changes colors [and] depending on her emotions, lights up and shimmers."
Disney Junior’s Ariel hasn't revealed its voice cast, but is executive produced by Lynne Southerland (Mulan II). Norma P. Sepulveda (Elena of Avalor) and Keith Wagner (TrollsTopia) serve as story editors, while Ezra Edmond (Draw Me a Story) produces, Kuni Tomita Bowen (Dora the Explorer) is supervising director, and Chrystin Garland (Solar Opposites) is art director.
As you might expect, there's been a typical level of social media backlash aimed at the show's depiction of Ariel. However, with Dr. Patricia Saunders, a professor of English and hemispheric Caribbean studies, serving as a cultural consultant, the show should live up to its promise to explore the multicultural diversity of the Caribbean through music, food, festivals, fashion, language and folklore.
Disney Junior’s Ariel is set to be released on Disney platforms worldwide in 2024.