“It was exciting to see that change.”
With R&B artistHalle Baileyat the helm, the world got its first Black Ariel.
And withdrag queens as a major influence,Melissa McCarthyembraced her role as the villainous Ursula.
Melissa McCarthy as Ursula in ‘The Little Mermaid’ and Vanessa actress Jessica Alexander.Disney; Jeff Spicer/Getty
But asLittle Mermaidfans know, filling the role of the sea witch is bigger than a single actress.
“Our Vanessa, she’s such a wonderful actor,” Marshall tells EW.
“It was so clear, right from the beginning.”
Jessica Alexander.VALERIE MACON/AFP via Getty
“Jessica is not really a singer, but she acted the singing so beautifully,” Marshall says.
“She’s just a beautiful, beautiful actress, and she went there.
It was exciting to see that change.
She’s a force, Jessica.
She’s incredible.”
“I really didn’t want to do too many stunt [castings],” Marshall says.
“The thing is that Jessica is an extraordinary actress,” Marshall says.
“I mean, quite young, but you’re able to see her work.
She just gets it, and she’s fearless.
That’s what you find in an audition.
With reporting by Nick Romano.
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