There has been a lot of discussion about Halle Bailey as Ariel in Disney’s upcoming live-action remake ofThe Little Mermaid, and the controversy has made its way toSaturday Night Live. While there are many who are thrilled to see a new take on Ariel with Bailey in the role, the casting has not gone without its criticism with some on social media unhappy with the “race-swapping” of the fictional mermaid. Appearing as “Black Ariel” during the “Weekend Update” segment onSNL, Ego Nwodim addressed the backlash, and you may see the skit in the video below.
In the segment, Nwodim’s Ariel argues that she shouldn’t be viewed as a role model anyway. She says that there’s a lot of pressure with being put into this position and insists that she’s but a mere mermaid and not the “hero” that people are making her out to be. Nwodim makes the revelation that she was born into wealth, specifically Bezos-level rich, with her father being the king of the sea.
“I used to ride around on little seahorses for fun,” Nwodim says.
“What’s wrong with that?” Colin Jost asks.
“Down there, those are just poor people,” the mermaid responds.
Nwodim then starts poking fun at the half-fish aspects of her mermaid character, suggesting she’s not smart enough for people to be looking up to her as a role model.
“I’m dumb too, Colin,” she said. “Like, stupid stupid. My brain’s half-fish. I’ll dead-ass bite a worm on a hook. Gets me every damn time!”
Further complicating matters, this Ariel says she’s “pro-SeaWorld,” referring to the heavy controversy that has been leveled against the park for its treatment of sea animals. Hoping to conjure up even more backlash against herself while she’s on a role, Nwodim also jokes that she fully supports the war in Iraq and takes the credit for causing theinfamous BP oil spillthat occurred in 2010.
“I ran up on that pipeline drunk as hell one night and did a little damage,” says Nwodim’s Ariel. “Yeah. To this day, Flounder still won’t talk to me.”
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The Little Mermaid Remake Reimagines Ariel
Some people may not like it, but Halle Bailey is the new Ariel. This casting decision is something that has the blessing of original Ariel voice actress Jodi Benson who’s just as stoked as many fans to see this different take on the character. Lin-Manuel Miranda, who co-wrote new music for the movie with Alan Menken, has said thathaters can “stay mad"as Bailey is the perfect Ariel.
“I’m not interested in giving them any oxygen because I know the lives that are going to be changed,” Miranda explained about those criticizing Bailey on social media, viaVariety. “Halle is perfect for the part. She is going to blow them away. If that’s the thing that makes you mad, then stay mad. But examine your choices.”
The Little Mermaidwill be released in theaters on July 30, 2025.
