Disney releases ‘Little Mermaid’ live-action trailer starring Halle Bailey

Grab your toddlers and tiaras – Disney just gave us what we’ve all been waiting for.

Even if you don’t have a toddler, you are definitely going to want to see this movie! The official first look for Disney’s live-action remake of “The Little Mermaid” is here and it certainly did not disappoint. The trailer begins with a peek “under the sea” through Ariel’s eyes. Ariel, played by Atlanta-born Halle Bailey, swims past fish and sea turtles, as she stumbles across a wrecked ship. Bailey takes a look inside and that’s when things get even better – we hear her rendition of the classic Disney song “Part of Your World.”

“When we started this journey, it was very important to honor the original,” said director, Rob Marshall. Marshall’s credits also include “Mary Poppins Returns” for Disney, as well as movie musicals such as “Chicago” and “Into the Woods.” “The Little Mermaid” live-action movie will also have four new songs – Marshall made sure longtime Disney alum Alan Menken teamed up with award-winning Lin-Manuel Miranda to create those new songs. “They’d never collaborated together before, and it’s magical,” said Marshall.

Bailey has consistently spoken about her love for the original film, despite the criticism she received from trolls on social media. Bailey even spoke about the support she received from her grandparents, who reminded her of the impact she would have on so many. “It was an inspiring and beautiful thing to hear their words of encouragement, telling me, ‘You don’t understand what this is doing for us, for our community, for all the little Black and brown girls who are going to see themselves in you,’” Bailey said. Bailey recently shared the first look trailer on her Instagram, with the caption “Can’t believe it’s happening.”

“The Little Mermaid” will dive into theaters on May 26, 2023. You can see the official teaser trailer below: