In Disney’s 1989 animated classic The Little Mermaid, Ariel was voiced by American actress and singer Jodi Benson. Benson performed the lead vocal tracks for ‘Part of Your World,’ ‘Under the Sea,’ and ‘Kiss the Girl,’ and she later reprised the role in sequels, television series, and related Disney productions. For the 2023 live-action remake, Halle Bailey was cast as Ariel, delivering new vocal performances for the stage-to-screen adaptation while maintaining the character’s tone and emotional arc.
Original Animated Film: Jodi Benson
Background and Casting
Jodi Benson, already known for Broadway and animation work, was chosen by Disney to embody Ariel’s vocal personality. Her casting aligned with the film’s goal of blending youthful idealism with a strong, independent spirit. Benson’s clear soprano and interpretive skills helped define the character across spoken and musical scenes.
Musical Contributions
Benson recorded key songs, including the iconic ‘Part of Your World’ and the upbeat ‘Under the Sea.’ Her vocal delivery balanced vulnerability and determination, supporting story moments that range from introspective to exuberant. These recordings became central to the film’s enduring popularity.
Live-Action Remake: Halle Bailey
Selection and Approach
For the 2023 live-action adaptation, Disney cast Halle Bailey as Ariel. Bailey approached the role by honoring the animated character’s emotional arc while tailoring her performance to a realistic underwater aesthetic. Her vocal style brought a contemporary R&B texture to classic songs.
Performances and Reception
Bailey performed new versions of ‘Part of Your World’ and other songs, emphasizing clarity and emotional sincerity. Critics and audiences noted her commitment to authenticity and vocal control, which complemented the film’s visual and musical redesign.
Comparative Overview
The portrayal of Ariel spans animated and live-art mediums, reflecting evolving performance standards and production techniques. Both actresses maintained the character’s core curiosity and determination while adapting to distinct cinematic contexts.
| Version | Actor | Key Songs | Release Year |
|---|---|---|---|
| Animated | Jodi Benson | Part of Your World, Under the Sea | 1989 |
| Live-Action | Halle Bailey | Part of Your World (reimagined), other musical numbers | 2023 |
Additional Appearances
Jodi Benson continued to voice Ariel in sequels, the TV series, and Disney theme park attractions, ensuring continuity for the animated legacy. Halle Bailey’s live-action interpretation expanded the character’s reach to a new generation, supported by global promotional campaigns and cross-platform storytelling.
Conclusion
The question of who played Ariel in The Little Mermaid is answered by two prominent performers: Jodi Benson for the original animated film and Halle Bailey for the live-action remake. Each brought distinct vocal and interpretive qualities while preserving Ariel’s defining traits of bravery, curiosity, and compassion.
