When Disney announced the studio had cast Halle Bailey in the role of Ariel for its live-action reboot of “The Little Mermaid”, the 19-year-old actress-singer was immediately hit by backlash from those who didn’t like the idea of an African-American playing the titular mermaid.
On Tuesday, Bailey attended the Power of Young Hollywood gala in Los Angeles, where she responded to the criticism.
“I feel like I’m dreaming and I’m just grateful and I don’t pay attention to the negativity,” she told Variety. “I just feel like this role was something bigger than me and greater and it’s going to be beautiful. I’m just so excited to be a part of it.”
Bailey and her sister, Chloe (known collectively as the musical duo Chloe x Halle) spoke with People during the event, with the latter asked if she was proud about her sister being cast as Ariel.
“Heck yeah!” said Chloe, 21. “I was more than proud. I was screaming and crying. She worked so hard.”
“My sister is my inspiration, my role model and my everything in every part of life,” Halle added. “I’m so happy to be on this journey with her and that we get to experience life together.”
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Halle also addressed the various rumours regarding who will play her love interest, Prince Eric, after reports indicated that Harry Styles was in talks for the role.
“I think anybody could do a wonderful job with the role,” she told People. “I’m so blessed to be a part of such a beautiful project.”
