Once a ‘Bond’ Villain, Spanish actor, Javier Bardem is the latest in a line of high-profile names to be linked to Disney’s ‘The Little Mermaid’. The actor has entered into negotiations to join the cast as King Triton, the father of Ariel.
‘Mary Poppins Returns’ helmer Rob Marshall is in the director’s chair for the live-action re-imagining. Disney and the production team behind it are looking to make contemporary and compelling casting choices, while still paying homage to the beloved animated original.
Melissa McCarthy is currently in talks to play Ursula while Jacob Tremblay and Awkwafina have already joined the cast in undisclosed roles. R&B singer Halle Bailey has been cast as Ariel. Ex-One Directioner, Harry Styles is also in talks to play Prince Eric.
The film will use some of the original songs from the 1989 animated hit as well as new ones from Alan Menken and Lin-Manuel Miranda. Miranda is also producing the film along with Marshall, Marc Platt and John DeLuca. David Magee wrote the script.
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The film tells the story of a mermaid princess named Ariel who dreams of becoming human, after falling in love with a human prince named Eric. Written and directed by Ron Clements and John Musker. Menken wrote the music, including the Oscar-winning “Under the Sea,” “Part of Your World” and “Kiss the Girl.”
It featured the voices of Jodi Benson, Christopher Daniel Barnes, Pat Carroll, Samuel E. Wright, Jason Marin, Kenneth Mars, Buddy Hackett, and René Auberjonois.
The film made a staggering $84 million at the domestic box office during its initial release and $233 million in total lifetime gross worldwide.
Production is due to begin early 2020.
