Meet the Cast of Disney's New Animated "Ariel" Series

TELEVISION / ANIMATION

Disney is set to delight fans with its latest animated series, "Ariel," premiering on Disney Junior on June 27, 2024, and available on Disney+ the following day. This fresh take on the beloved character from "The Little Mermaid" follows a young Ariel in the Caribbean-inspired kingdom of Atlantica, offering a vibrant mix of adventure, culture, and musical charm.

The Cast

Mykal-Michelle Harris as Ariel Mykal-Michelle Harris is a talented young actress who has rapidly gained recognition for her engaging performances and charismatic presence on screen. Born in New Jersey, Harris began her acting career at a young age, quickly making a name for herself with her roles in various television series and films. She is best known for her role as Santamonica Johnson in ABC's "Mixed-ish," a prequel spin-off of the popular show "Black-ish." In "Mixed-ish," Harris's portrayal of the younger version of Rainbow Johnson's sister showcased her comedic timing and ability to handle complex character dynamics.

Harris also appeared in HBO's critically acclaimed series "Big Little Lies," where she played the daughter of Zoë Kravitz's character, Bonnie Carlson. Her performance in the series highlighted her versatility and ability to convey deep emotional narratives, even at a young age. With her role as Ariel in Disney's new series, Harris brings a fresh and vibrant energy to the iconic character, making her relatable to a new generation of viewers. Her enthusiasm for the role and her ability to capture the essence of Ariel's curiosity and adventurous spirit promise to make this series a standout hit​ (Yahoo)​​ (Home)​.

Taye Diggs as King Triton Taye Diggs is an accomplished actor and singer whose career spans over two decades, with significant contributions to both stage and screen. Born in Newark, New Jersey, Diggs graduated from Syracuse University with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in musical theater. He made his Broadway debut in the Tony Award-winning musical "Rent," where he played the role of Benny. This role not only showcased his powerful vocal abilities but also established him as a dynamic performer in the theater community.

Diggs's transition to television and film was seamless, with notable roles in productions such as "How Stella Got Her Groove Back," "The Best Man," and "Brown Sugar." He gained widespread recognition for his role as Dr. Sam Bennett on the hit medical drama "Private Practice," a spin-off of "Grey's Anatomy." His portrayal of a compassionate and dedicated physician earned him critical acclaim and a loyal fan base.

In addition to his acting career, Diggs is an accomplished author, having written several children's books, including the popular "Chocolate Me!" series. His role as King Triton in "Ariel" is expected to bring a regal and authoritative presence to the character, combined with his rich vocal talent and extensive experience in the entertainment industry​ (Yahoo)​​ (Home)​.

Amber Riley as Ursula Amber Riley is a celebrated singer and actress who rose to fame with her role as Mercedes Jones on the hit television series "Glee." Born in Los Angeles, California, Riley's powerful voice and charismatic performances have earned her numerous accolades and a dedicated fan following. On "Glee," Riley's portrayal of the talented and confident Mercedes showcased her exceptional vocal range and ability to bring depth to her character, making her one of the standout performers on the show.

Riley's success on "Glee" led to her Broadway debut in the musical "Dreamgirls," where she played the lead role of Effie White. Her performance in the musical was met with critical acclaim, earning her the prestigious Laurence Olivier Award for Best Actress in a Musical. Riley's stage presence and vocal prowess have solidified her reputation as a powerhouse performer in both theater and television.

In addition to her acting career, Riley has released music as a solo artist, further showcasing her versatility and talent. Her role as Ursula in "Ariel" is highly anticipated, as her commanding presence and dynamic voice are expected to bring a new dimension to the iconic sea witch, making her a compelling and formidable character​ (Yahoo)​​ (Home)​.

Additional Cast Members

The series also features Gracen Newton as Flounder, Ariel’s loyal fish friend, and introduces new characters like Ariel’s best friends Fernie (Cruz Flateau) and Lucia (Elizabeth Phoenix Caro). Recurring cast members include Yvette Nicole Brown, Melissa Villaseñor, and Ron Funches, who contribute to the rich, diverse world of Atlantica.

Executive Producer: Lynne Southerland

Lynne Southerland serves as the executive producer of "Ariel." Southerland is a seasoned director and producer with an impressive portfolio in animation. She co-directed "Mulan II" and has been involved in various successful projects such as "Happily Ever After" and "Bebe’s Kids." Her leadership and vision are crucial in shaping the new series, ensuring it stays true to its roots while introducing fresh, culturally rich elements inspired by the Caribbean.

The Series

Set in the vibrant underwater kingdom of Atlantica, "Ariel" follows the titular character as she embarks on numerous adventures with her friends and family. The show emphasizes themes of self-expression, curiosity, and resourcefulness, celebrating Caribbean culture through its food, fashion, language, and folklore. Each episode aims to entertain while providing valuable lessons for its young audience.

Watch the Trailer:

Music is a central element of "Ariel," featuring original songs inspired by diverse Caribbean genres. The soundtrack, created by a team of acclaimed songwriters, will be released digitally on June 28, 2024. Emmy Award winner Christopher Willis serves as the composer, with Sean Skeete, dean of the Professional Performance division at Berklee College of Music, acting as the Caribbean music consultant​ (Black Women Directors)​​ (LaughingPlace.com)​​ (Home)​.

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