Donald Glover Praises Halle Bailey For "Little Mermaid" Role: "You Earned It"

BYErika Marie4.6K Views
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Donald Glover, Halle Bailey
He just wants her to ignore the negativity and be excited about her new adventure.

Unproblematic actress-singer Halle Bailey has been at the center of a Disney classic controversy. Following the announcement that she would portray the character of Ariel in Disney's live-action film for The Little Mermaid, there were some who had a meltdown because they didn't want to see a white character played by a woman.

The backlash caused many entertainers to speak out in support of the Grown-ish star, including Donald Glover. While on the red carpet at the The Lion King premiere, a live-action Disney film that he stars in as the adult version of Simba, the artist was asked about his thoughts regarding Bailey's casting. With a joyful smile on his face, Glover told E! News correspondent Zuri Hall that he "thought it was so special."

"We were just watching that film and I'm like...that's such a great story but I'm just like, I dunno [he makes a strange face]," Glover said. He also had a few words of advice for the young star as she embarks on her career-changing role. "I just hope that she's like, having fun. And don't let anybody make you feel the opposite of how you want to feel. It's a very special role and you earned it, so I hope you're listening."


About The Author
Erika Marie is a seasoned journalist, editor, and ghostwriter who works predominantly in the fields of music, spirituality, mental health advocacy, and social activism. The Los Angeles editor, storyteller, and activist has been involved in the behind-the-scenes workings of the entertainment industry for nearly two decades. E.M. attempts to write stories that are compelling while remaining informative and respectful. She's an advocate of lyrical witticism & the power of the pen. Favorites: Motown, New Jack Swing, '90s R&B, Hip Hop, Indie Rock, & Punk; Funk, Soul, Harlem Renaissance Jazz greats, and artists who innovate, not simply replicate.
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