It seems that every week, we are being given a glimpse into some of the behind the scenes early production of the live action version of The Little Mermaid – most recently, the revelation that R&B singer Halle Bailey is due to take the title role of Ariel. And now, sources such as Variety and The DisInsider have revealed that Javier Bardem (Skyfall) is in talks to take on the role of Ariel’s father and King of the sea, King Triton.
But just because he is in talks doesn’t mean that the role has been offered to him nor that he even wants to take it on – it’s all in the very early stages. Similarly to the news spreading that One Direction’s Harry Styles is in the same stage as Javier while in talks to play the heartthrob Prince Eric. It has now been confirmed that Melissa McCarthy is officially taking on the role of the sassy sea witch Ursula.
This also isn’t the first time that Javier has had dealings with Disney or the sea after playing the villainous Captain Salazar in Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Men Tell No Tales (2017). He also portrayed the villain in Skyfall (2012) and another unnerving character in Mother! (2017) so if he does decide to take on the role, it will be interesting to see how he adapts to playing a softer role. However, Triton does have a temper on him so perhaps the harder side of Javier will land him in good stead.
We will update as news develops.
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