Harry Styles Won't Be Prince Eric After All
Earlier this summer, casting rumors ran abuzz surrounding the newest live-action adaptation of The Little Mermaid. Halle Bailey made headlines after earning the sea-kissed title role, leading fans to speculate about who would play her human love interest, Prince Eric. Names like Charles Melton and even Shawn Mendes circulated, but news came out that Harry Styles was in early talks for the role after simultaneously competing for the part of Elvis (a role he lost out to Austin Butler) in an upcoming Baz Luhrmann film.
However, the musician and actor's representatives have confirmed to The Hollywood Reporter that unfortunately for his legions of fans, he will not be joining anyone under the sea. The Rob Marshall-directed movie musical has booked Bailey as well as Jacob Tremblay, Awkwafina, and Melissa McCarthy so far for the roles of Flounder, Scuttle, and Ursula respectively. With Styles out, the Internet must continue its dream fancast, finding encouragement within Disney's decision to shake up the previous look by casting Bailey. The film is set to start production soon, so who finally ends up with the crown is anyone's guess. Stay tuned, and maybe go check which star the Twitterverse is dreaming about now.