“How Halle Bailey and Jodi Benson’s Heartwarming Encounter at ‘The Little Mermaid’ Premiere Has Become a Beacon of Hope for Representation in Hollywood”

The premier of Disney’s live-action feature “The Little Mermaid” took place at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood on Monday night, and Halle Bailey, making history as the first Black actress to play Ariel, shone on the blue carpet. The star, one half of the singing group Chloe X Halle, has expressed her hope that her role as Ariel inspires people who never saw themselves represented with their favorite princesses to know that they “deserve to be in these spaces.” Bailey’s sentiment echoed the rise of Black mermaids in books and films, showcasing the need for greater representation in Hollywood.

Bailey’s encounter with Jodi Benson, the voice actor for Ariel in the 1989 Disney animated feature, was a powerful moment. Benson, an influential figure to Bailey, embraced the young actress, sharing an amicable picture on the blue carpet. Benson’s role as Ariel altered the perception of what a Disney princess could be, much like Bailey’s groundbreaking casting.

### Empowering Hope for Representation

Bailey’s appearance in the live-action “Little Mermaid” aligns with a growing trend in Hollywood towards representation, one that uses art to offer a beacon of hope and empowerment to those frequently excluded. Bailey’s casting shows that Hollywood is making progress in dismantling long-held prejudices, such as the notion that a mermaid must be white. It is a noteworthy victory for all who have ever dealt with the pain of not having representation, even in their favorite fairy tales.

### Progress and Blueprint

Bailey was candid about the fact that Black actresses before her, such as Brandy and Anika Noni Rose, “really were the blueprint” for Bailey to even be able to play Ariel. Bailey hopes that she can inspire, in turn becoming a blueprint for the actors who come after her, giving them the power and courage that she had because of the great performers before her.

As Hollywood continues to be more representative, there is hope that Bailey’s casting will inspire other filmmakers to take the same step forward. With this optimism and hope, there also needs to be a realization that the fight for representation is not yet over. Hollywood still has a long way to go, and it is vital for society’s progress that people continue working together towards greater inclusivity, both in front of and behind the camera.

At the end of the day, Bailey’s portrayal showcases the empowering nature of art, not only for entertainment, but also in creating empowering hope and generating a blueprint for more progress in the future. In a world that, unfortunately, still faces inequities, Bailey’s casting is a glimmer of hope, inspiring audience members and art lovers worldwide.

***Disney is the parent company of ABC News and “Good Morning America.”***