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Amidst this intense backlash, Holly Bailey, the actress portraying Ariel, has spoken publicly about her experience and feelings regarding the controversy. Bailey has emphasized her understanding of what it would have meant for her as a young girl to see herself represented in such a beloved character, stating:
"It would have changed my whole outlook on life."
She has also addressed the racist reactions directly, choosing instead to focus on the positive impact her role could have for young children, especially Black girls, who might see themselves reflected in Ariel for the first time.