Little Mermaid remake release date, cast, plot and trailer: Everything YOU need to know

Everyone’s favourite fish-girl, Ariel is to get a modern makeover after Disney announced a live-action remake of its classic animation The Little Mermaid. The movie is the latest in a string of House of Mouse live action revamps which include the Lion King, Mulan and Lady and the Tramp. This is the Express.co.uk guide to the new The Little Mermaid flick.

Who is in the cast?

Disney is yet to release the full Little Mermaid cast list but it has already caused some controversy.

Despite Ariel being an animated mermaid – a fictional creature of no creed, colour or denomination, some people have objected to the casting of Halle Bailey in the role.

Black actress and singer Halle is one part of the R&B duo CHLOE X HALLE.

She rose to fame with her sister posting YouTube videos of them covering Beyonce tracks.

Halle will no doubt resonate with a younger audience and is a savvy choice from Disney bosses keen to breathe new life into the old classic.

The voice of Ariel’s seagull pal Scuttle will be played by comic and Crazy Rich Asians actress Awkwafina.

Jacob Tremblay, 12, who made his big movie debut in The Room has been lined up to play Flounder, the friendly blue and yellow fish.

Oscar nominee Melissa McCarthy is reported to be in talks with director Rob Marshall about taking on the role of terrifying undersea villain Ursula.

While Disney is yet to confirm, Terry Crews sent fans into a frenzy after tweeting he was set to play Ariel’s dad King Triton

The actor and comedian shared a photoshopped mock-up of himself with a fishtail, wielding a trident.

The tweet read: “Ariel’s Dad!!! #ArielsGotTerry #AmericasGotTerry”

News about who will play Ariel’s love interest Prince Eric and her sisters is yet to be announced.

Director Rob Marshall is no stranger to remakes having recently directed the new Mary Poppins: Poppins Returns film.

Marshall has set out to refresh The Little Mermaid with “contemporary and compelling casting choices” according to Variety- so watch this space.

When is the release date?

A release date for the Little Mermaid remake is yet to be announced.

But production on the movie is believed to begin in April 2020.

This would mean a release date in late 2021.

Will it have a different plot?

While Disney has not released a plot synopsis it is likely the Little Mermaid will follow in the path of other recent live-action remakes and stick closely to the original plot.