Halle Bailey Shares Heartwarming Moment as Son Recognizes Her as Ariel in ‘The Little Mermaid’
The enchanting tale of "The Little Mermaid" has captivated audiences for generations, solidifying its place as a beloved children’s movie staple. For Halle Bailey, however, the experience of watching this classic film takes on an entirely new dimension. Bailey, who breathed life into the iconic role of Ariel in the 2023 live-action remake, recently shared a touching video showcasing her son’s adorable reaction to seeing his mother grace the screen as the beloved mermaid princess.
In a heartwarming clip posted on X (formerly Twitter) on Wednesday, Bailey captured the precious moment her 14-month-old son, Halo, recognized her as Ariel. The video shows Halo engrossed in the opening sequence of the film, his tiny voice repeating "Mama" as Ariel appeared on screen. Overwhelmed with emotion, Bailey captioned the post, "Guys i’m crying he actually knows Ariel is me." The sheer joy and pride in her voice were palpable, resonating with parents worldwide who have experienced similar moments of connection with their children.
Halo is Bailey’s son with her ex-partner, DDG. The actress, known for her exceptional talent and undeniable charm, has navigated a multifaceted career that spans both acting and music. Before stepping into the role of Ariel, Bailey rose to prominence as one half of the dynamic sibling R&B duo, Chloe x Halle. Together with her sister Chloe, Halle mesmerized audiences with their soulful harmonies, captivating stage presence, and undeniable star power.
The casting of Halle Bailey as Ariel in the live-action remake was met with both excitement and controversy. While many celebrated the representation and inclusivity of casting a Black actress in the role, a vocal minority expressed racist objections, clinging to the traditional image of Ariel as a white character in the original animated film. However, Bailey gracefully navigated the backlash, embodying the spirit of Ariel with unwavering confidence and grace.
Despite the negativity, the film went on to become a resounding success, proving the power of inclusivity and representation in storytelling. "The Little Mermaid" garnered critical acclaim and commercial success, earning over $560 million at box offices worldwide. Furthermore, the film shattered streaming records upon its arrival on Disney+, according to Entertainment Weekly, solidifying its place as a modern classic.
Since the release of "The Little Mermaid," Bailey has embarked on a promising solo musical career, showcasing her versatility as an artist. She has released several singles, including the critically acclaimed and Grammy-nominated song "Angel," which further demonstrates her immense talent and potential.
Throughout her journey, Bailey has found unwavering support from her sister Chloe, who has consistently championed her sister’s achievements, both personally and professionally. Chloe’s own solo career has also blossomed, with her hit song "Have Mercy" becoming a radio favorite. Beyond their professional bond, Chloe also embraces her role as an aunt to Halo with immense love and affection.
It seems Halo may be destined to follow in the footsteps of his musically gifted family. Chloe Bailey shared with People magazine at the NAACP Image Awards in February that Halo is showing early signs of musical inclination. "He’s singing, he’s dancing a lot," Chloe revealed, adding, "He’s making beats in his kids beats machine … that’s going to be my little mini-producer, my little mini-me." This glimpse into Halo’s budding musical talent hints at a bright future for the young boy.
The story of Halle Bailey as Ariel is not only a testament to her talent and dedication but also a powerful reminder of the importance of representation in media. Seeing a Black woman embody a beloved Disney princess has resonated deeply with audiences around the world, particularly young Black girls who now have a princess who looks like them. The impact of this representation is immeasurable, inspiring a new generation to dream big and believe in the power of their own stories.
As Halo grows up, he will undoubtedly be surrounded by the magic of his mother’s portrayal of Ariel, a legacy that will continue to inspire and uplift for years to come. Bailey’s journey, from her rise to fame as a member of Chloe x Halle to her triumphant portrayal of Ariel and her burgeoning solo career, is a testament to her talent, resilience, and unwavering spirit. Her ability to balance her career with motherhood is truly inspiring, and her heartwarming connection with her son is a reminder of the profound joys and responsibilities of parenthood.
