Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Halle Bailey Addresses Racism, Advocates for Representation

4/7/2026

43 8 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Halle Bailey, the star of Disney's live-action The Little Mermaid, described facing backlash from racist trolls and highlighted the importance of representation for Black and brown girls.
She said her family helped her cope with the negativity by sharing their own experiences with racism.
Director Rob Marshall affirmed that the casting process focused on finding the best actor, regardless of ethnicity.

1 of 1

Story summary

Halle Bailey, the star of Disney's live-action The Little Mermaid, described facing backlash from racist trolls and highlighted the importance of representation for Black and brown girls.
She said her family helped her cope with the negativity by sharing their own experiences with racism.
Director Rob Marshall affirmed that the casting process focused on finding the best actor, regardless of ethnicity.