Disney has announced that R&B singer Halle Bailey will make her film debut playing Ariel in the live-action adaptation of The Little Mermaid, with the 19-year-old describing her casting as a "dream come true".
"After an extensive search, it was abundantly clear that Halle possesses that rare combination of spirit, heart, youth, innocence, and substance - plus a glorious singing voice - all intrinsic qualities necessary to play this iconic role," said director Rob Marshall in a statement.
Bailey, who sings with her sister Chloe in the Beyoncé-championed duo Chloe x Halle, joins a cast that includes Room's Jacob Tremblay and Crazy Rich Asians' Awkwafina. Melissa McCarthy is in talks to play the villain, Ursula.
With Mary Poppins Returns and Chicago director Marshall behind the lens, The Little Mermaid will feature much-loved songs from the 1989 animated film, as well as new numbers from original composer Alan Menken and Hamilton creator Lin-Manuel Miranda.
