Voice of Ariel in 'Little Mermaid' Defends Halle Bailey's Casting Since news broke that the 'Chloe X Halle' singer would play the part, there has been online backlash. A campaign called #NotMyAriel emerged, furious that Disney cast a black actress for the role. But at a recent convention in Florida, actress Jodi Benson said that race does not matter and that the story is the most important factor. Jodi Benson, via Florida Supercon She also lended her vocals to Ariel in two sequels. Jodi Benson, via Florida Supercon Production on the live-action Disney movie will begin sometime next year.
