Halle Bailey Discovers Her Voice and Empowerment on the Set of ‘The Little Mermaid
Renowned singer and actress Halle Bailey, known for her captivating voice and her upcoming role as Ariel in Disney’s live-action remake of “The Little Mermaid,” recently shared her journey of finding her voice, both in her profession and as an advocate for herself. In an interview with CNN, Bailey revealed that she has sometimes found it daunting to speak up in professional settings. However, she received invaluable guidance and support from her co-star Melissa McCarthy, who plays Ursula, the film’s antagonist.
Bailey, who is part of the Grammy-nominated sister duo Chloe x Halle, expressed that advocating for oneself in the industry can be intimidating. Yet, she recognized the importance of asserting her needs and preferences. McCarthy, an accomplished actress with a remarkable career, shared her own experiences of evolving from timidity to self-assuredness. She conveyed to Bailey that growing older often brings the confidence to express oneself effectively.
The 22-year-old artist reflected on the advice she received from McCarthy, emphasizing that it was enlightening to witness McCarthy’s comfort with her identity and her ability to stand up for herself. McCarthy’s guidance became especially valuable to Bailey when she needed the courage to voice her requirements, such as the need for breaks or moments of solitude to clear her mind during intense work on the set of “The Little Mermaid.”
Bailey and McCarthy’s collaboration on the 2023 live-action adaptation of “The Little Mermaid” offered Bailey not only a remarkable professional experience but also personal growth. This adaptation, directed by Rob Marshall, draws inspiration from the beloved 1989 animated classic and is set to grace theaters on May 26, 2023.
In addition to her role in the film, Bailey has been partnering with ZYRTEC for their “Beat the Mondays” tour, further expanding her presence and influence. She acknowledged that her inner strength had always existed but required the confidence to harness it fully. Bailey emphasized that she was empowered to embrace this newfound confidence by the remarkable women who have influenced her life.
She concluded by emphasizing the importance of unity among women and the need for mutual support to uplift one another during pivotal moments. Bailey’s journey reflects the significance of mentorship and empowerment within the entertainment industry and beyond. Her ability to find her voice and advocate for herself serves as an inspiration for others navigating their own paths in an often challenging and competitive world.
