Harry Styles is in talks to play Prince Eric in the upcoming live-action remake of The Little Mermaid, The Hollywood Reporter reports.
The singer-turned-Dunkirk-actor will reportedly portray the beloved Disney love interest alongside R&B singer Halle Bailey, whose casting was revealed earlier this month.
Styles will likely be joining rumoured cast mates Melissa McCarthy (Ursula), Jacob Tremblay (Flounder) and Awkwafina (Scuttle) as he takes on the iconic role.
Considering the two lead roles appear to have been handed to two individuals who are primarily known for their singing talents, it does appear that the musical component to the remake will be a particular focus.
Here's hoping this classic tune will be included in the remake:Interestingly, Prince Eric didn't sing at all in the original animated version, so we don't know for sure if Style will be belting out any tunes in the new movie.
But if you're a fan of the former 1D star, don't fret because Prince Eric does sing a number of songs in the broadway version - he even has two solos.
The 1989 version went on to win best original song and score at the Oscars for Alan Menken. For the latest take on the fairy tale, Alan Menken will update his score, and is all set compose a new song with lyrics from Lin-Manuel Miranda.
The new Disney flick will be directed by Rob Marshall, best known for his work on the Academy Award-winning musical Chicago.
Although Marshall has yet to share any information on Style's role in the new adaptation, he did go into detail about why Bailey stood out amongst other Ariel hopefuls as the star, in the following statement:
"After an extensive search, it was abundantly clear that Halle possesses that rare combination of spirit, heart, youth, innocence, and substance—plus a glorious singing voice—all intrinsic qualities necessary to play this iconic role."
No official comment has been made by Styles himself, either through a spokesperson or via social media.
Production is set to begin in 2020 and, as such, no release date has been specified.
