“I don’t care what I’m doing”: Original ‘The Little Mermaid’ Star Jodi Benson Gives Honest Verdict on Halle Bailey Amid Massive Fan Backlash
It seems that those who doubted the new Little Mermaid’s ability to pay tribute to the original Ariel were oversighted. Director Rob Marshall, who has been friends with Jodi Benson for over 30 years, ensured that the connection between the two versions of Ariel was honored. Jodi Benson, the original voice of Ariel, expressed her delight in returning to that beloved world once again.
In a recent interview with Entertainment Weekly, Jodi Benson shared her excitement about her cameo appearance in Rob Marshall’s live-action adaptation of the 1989 animated classic. Her role involved a heartwarming activity of preparing a pot of beans and rice on an outdoor set. The warmth generated by the heater at her feet attracted everyone to gather around her pot during breaks. Benson not only provided physical warmth but also radiated a genuine warmth with her presence that touched everyone on set.
Read More: Halle Bailey’s Casting in ‘The Little Mermaid’ Defended By Jodi Benson
What Did Jodi Benson Say About Halle Bailey Playing Little Mermaid
Jodi Benson expressed her excitement about being approached by Robbie (Rob Marshall), stating:
” It was just a huge thrill for me when Robbie reached out,” Benson told the outlet. “I’m like, ‘Of course, I’m gonna come! I don’t care what I’m doing. I just can’t wait to get around the set and watch all of you work. It was just pure joy for me.”
She eagerly accepted the opportunity, regardless of her other commitments, simply because she couldn’t wait to be on set and witness the work of the talented team. She described her involvement in the film as a source of pure joy.
Read This: Here’s Why Criticizing Halle Bailey’s Casting As “The Little Mermaid” Is Racist
Halle Bailey‘s casting as Ariel sparked significant controversy, with many complaints centered around her not closely resembling the original Ariel in terms of voice or hand-drawn appearance. However, Jodi Benson, the original voice of Ariel, refused to entertain these criticisms. She addressed the backlash in a 2019 interview with Entertainment Weekly, which also covered her cameo in director Rob Marshall’s reimagining of the beloved 1989 animated classic.
Why Did Halle Bailey Recieve Backlash From Fans?
Halle Bailey’s childhood was marked by a deep obsession with The Little Mermaid. She would watch the 1989 Disney animated film repeatedly on her family’s VHS tape and imagine herself as Ariel while swimming. Bailey related to Ariel’s sense of longing and determination, stating:
“She knew where she wanted to go, and she wasn’t going to let anybody stop her.”
Now 22 years old, Bailey finds herself in a parallel position as she portrays Ariel in the live-action remake of the beloved classic. Four years ago, she secured the coveted lead role, bringing Ariel’s quest for love and independence to a new generation of moviegoers. While the majority of fans embraced Bailey’s casting, there were vocal critics who objected to a Black actress portraying the iconic mermaid princess, using the hashtag #NotMyAriel.
The criticism had a profound impact on Bailey, but she was fortunate to have unwavering support from her tight-knit family, including her sister Chloe. Recognizing the significance of a strong support system, Chloe emphasizes that it is challenging to carry the weight of the world alone.
Bailey also gained valuable perspective from her grandparents, who shared their experiences of enduring racism and discrimination throughout their lives. Their words of encouragement resonated deeply with Bailey, as they expressed the impact her role would have on their community and on young Black and brown girls who would finally see themselves represented.
Source: Variety
