Halle Bailey’s official debut as the live-action Ariel is mere weeks away, and excitement for her take on the iconic character is intensifying in the leadup to the film’s May 26 release date.
The Little Mermaid has faced some harsh criticism over the course of its development, some of it reasonable and some based purely in bigotry. Backlash to Bailey’s casting was inevitable, but disappointing, as racist Disney fans (and just racists in general) pushed back against the idea of a Black Ariel. Bailey’s incredible voice, charming personality, and flawless princess energy make her a clear choice for the part, however — at least among those willing to give her a shot.
The film also faces criticism from soon-to-be viewers who find themselves unimpressed by the look of Ariel’s underwater friends, several of whom look like they were intended as yesterday’s dinner. Despite this pushback, and the ongoing racist fallout, the majority of fans are eagerly looking forward to witnessing Bailey’s Ariel for the first time.
Before she was making headlines as Disney’s pick for The Little Mermaid, Bailey was making a name for herself as one half of the musical duo Chloe x Halle, alongside her older sister Chloe. The pair have been contributing bangers to the world of R&B and pop for years now, and Bailey’s impending debut as the latest live-action Disney Princess is a huge moment for both of the Bailey sisters.
Chloe recently got the chance to celebrate her sister’s major milestone at the official Little Mermaid premiere. While chatting with an interviewer about her sister’s role, Chloe got a first-hand look at a very special incoming Barbie doll. Her reaction to Bailey’s official doll, which replicates her soon-to-be iconic take on Ariel, was utterly charming, and showcased the deep love and support the Bailey sisters share.
In a clip shared to Twitter, Chloe reacted in delight at the sight of her sister as a Barbie doll, and fought back tears remembering their own childhoods, playing with dolls “in our basement in Atlanta.” Her reaction — as she brushes the doll’s long, thick hair to the side and examines its face — is absolutely priceless. Her joy over her sister’s official Barbie, which she calls a “physical representation of dreams coming true,” is written across her face.
Commenters were just as taken by Chloe’s reaction as we were, and Disney is ardently hoping audiences are similarly taken by Bailey’s performance when The Little Mermaid arrives in theaters in just a few weeks.