Jodi Benson, who originated the role of Ariel in 1989’sThe Little Mermaid, supports these changes.

“We’re talking about starting our [voiceover] sessions in ‘86 [for the original film].

Benson’sLittle Mermaidfilm marked a prominent moment in movie history.

THE LITTLE MERMAID, Flounder, Ariel, Sebastian, 1989, (c)Walt Disney Pictures/courtesy Everett Collection ; Halle Bailey as Ariel in Disney’s live-action THE LITTLE MERMAID. Photo by Giles Keyte. © 2023 Disney Enterprises, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

Jodi Benson’s Ariel versus Halle Bailey’s Ariel.Disney Pictures/Everett; Giles Keyte/Disney

But it, too, has faced criticism over the years.

Bailey’s Ariel andJonah Hauer-King’s Prince Eric are now more kindred spirits.

We’ve got to roll with that.

Halle Bailey and Jodi Benson attend the World Premiere of Disney’s live-action feature “The Little Mermaid” at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles, California on May 08, 2023.

Halle Bailey and Jodi Benson at ‘The Little Mermaid’ premiere.Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty

But you’ve got to have growth.

It’s very important to stay relevant with where we are, what’s going on around us.

We need to be aware.

Benson is also dazzled by Bailey’s performance as a new generation’s Ariel.

She has told this beautiful story, and I’m just so thrilled for her.”

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