Halle Bailey has addressed the backlash she received over Disney casting a Black woman to play Ariel in the live-action remake of The Little Mermaid.
On September 10, Disney unveiled the trailer for the upcoming film at the D23 expo, and it has been met with negative reactions from viewers.
In just a matter of days, the trailer racked up a staggering 2 million dislikes, with many users left disappointed that the red-haired mermaid was played by a Black woman.
Speaking in a new video posted on her YouTube channel, the 22-year-old musician addressed the criticism, and her comments were truly enlightening.
Watch Bailey's video below:When asked what was the "biggest lesson" she learned while filming, Bailey revealed that being on set - as well as the abhorrent responses she received - taught her to have confidence in herself.
"It was a big 'more of the story' moment for me when I wrapped, because I dedicated so much time, blood, sweat, and tears into this work for this film," she began.
"In the process, I learned so much about myself. I remember at the very beginning of filming, I was way [timider] than I was coming out of it. I kind of felt like I grew with Ariel's character in a way," she added.
Even today, with all the "commentary and people's opinions" surrounding her casting, her biggest takeaway is to know that she is worthy and "grateful" for this opportunity.
"I know what it would've meant to me as a little girl to have been able to see a Black Ariel. If I would've seen that, it would have changed my whole outlook on life," she concluded.
The singer - who is part of the musical duo Chloe X Halle - went on to say that it still feels unreal for her to take on this role and that the little girl inside of her is "freaking out".
Also, Bailey mentioned that she's seen the truly heartwarming influx of videos of young Black girls reacting to her as Ariel, adding that she's appreciative of being part of this "monumental movement".
In an exclusive interview with E! News at the D23 Expo, the Grownish actress spoke candidly about the pressure she’s faced stepping into the beloved character’s shoes.
"I'm so excited about this film. You know being here today is so surreal. I'm just a fan of all of the other projects and the fact that I get to be a part of something like this. It's amazing," she said.
"I definitely think that because I love this movie so much, and I've treasured it since I was a little girl, I did put a bit of pressure on myself. Just because I want to deliver all of the feels that I saw when I was a little girl," Bailey continued.
"Knowing that gave it my all and gave 110 percent into everything of this film, I am really proud of myself," she said, echoing the same statement from her interview with People where she said that she put her "all and passion" into this movie.
As well as Bailey, Melissa McCarthy will appear in the movie playing the role of the sea witch Ursula, and Javier Bardem will play Ariel's dad, King Triton.
The Little Mermaid will be released in theaters on May 2023.
