Three years after stepping into the iconic role of Ariel in Disney’s live-action “The Little Mermaid,” Halle Bailey says the intense racist backlash she faced during the film’s casting and release ultimately became a “beautiful experience” that taught her to listen to her inner voice and “block out the noise.”
Halle Bailey
In a candid new interview with The Independent published this week, the 26-year-old actress and singer reflected on the 2023 project while promoting her upcoming romantic comedy “You, Me & Tuscany.” Bailey described portraying the beloved mermaid as transformative, both professionally and personally, despite the torrent of online criticism that erupted after her casting was announced in 2019 and intensified with the film’s trailer and premiere.
“It was a beautiful experience for me — and I feel like it taught me to listen to myself and the good voices inside. I learnt how to block out the noise,” Bailey told the outlet. She added that being thrust into the center of polarized opinions felt strangely liberating: “It was actually freeing to be in the middle of this conversation where so many different opinions were coming in, and they were so opposite from one another… I felt like I was watching myself inside a cup, seeing how people react to it.”
Although Bailey did not explicitly name the controversy in the interview, much of the “noise” stemmed from racist online backlash. Critics, many hiding behind anonymous accounts and the viral hashtag #NotMyAriel, objected to a Black actress playing the traditionally depicted red-haired, fair-skinned mermaid from Hans Christian Andersen’s tale and the 1989 animated classic. The discourse included boycotts, review-bombing of the trailer on YouTube and hateful comments questioning Disney’s decision.
Bailey has long maintained a graceful stance on the subject. In earlier interviews around the film’s release, she acknowledged that as a Black woman in the spotlight, such reactions were “not really a shock anymore.” She focused instead on the positive impact the role could have for young girls who saw themselves reflected in a Disney princess for the first time.
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A Defining Role Amid Division
Disney’s announcement that Bailey would star as Ariel came after an extensive global search. Director Rob Marshall praised her vocal talent and ethereal presence, noting her powerful rendition of “Part of Your World” during auditions. Bailey, already known as one half of the Grammy-nominated R&B duo Chloe x Halle and for roles in “Grown-ish” and “The Color Purple,” brought a fresh, soulful interpretation to the character.
The film, released in May 2023, ultimately grossed over $569 million worldwide despite the pre-release controversy. Critics and audiences praised Bailey’s performance, with many highlighting her emotional depth, vocal range and chemistry with co-stars including Jonah Hauer-King as Prince Eric and Javier Bardem as King Triton. The movie introduced a new generation to the story while sparking broader conversations about representation in Hollywood.
Bailey has repeatedly credited the experience with helping her grow. In the recent interview, she described feeling as though she was observing public reactions from a detached perspective, which reinforced her sense of self. “Growing up in the industry can really develop your sense of self, and for me, it keeps me grounded in a way,” she said. “I know for some people it’s the opposite but I just always think to myself, ‘None of this is real.’”
Her resilience drew admiration from mentors and peers. Bailey has spoken in the past about advice from Beyoncé, who signed Chloe x Halle to her Parkwood Entertainment label. The superstar reportedly told the sisters early on: “Don’t ever read the comments.” That guidance proved valuable during the height of the “Little Mermaid” scrutiny.
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Director Rob Marshall and other cast members publicly defended the casting, emphasizing that Ariel’s essence — curiosity, bravery and longing for more — transcended physical appearance. Jodi Benson, the original voice of Ariel in the animated film, offered heartfelt support, stating that heart and spirit matter most in bringing the character to life.
From Backlash to Personal Growth
The backlash was not isolated. Similar debates have surrounded diverse casting in other projects, from “The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power” to various superhero films. For Bailey, however, the “Little Mermaid” experience stood out because of the character’s cultural significance as a symbol of youthful wonder and transformation.
In reflecting three years later, Bailey framed the ordeal as a lesson in self-trust. She compared the polarized opinions to being inside a fishbowl, watching external reactions without letting them define her. This mindset has carried into her subsequent work, including her music career and new film projects.
Bailey’s latest project, “You, Me & Tuscany,” pairs her with Regé-Jean Page in a romantic comedy set against the backdrop of Italian countryside. The film marks another step in her evolution as an actress, moving from fantasy to more grounded, adult storytelling. During promotion for the movie, she has spoken about embracing womanhood at 26 and feeling “grown-grown” after navigating high-profile challenges.
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She has also balanced motherhood and a high-profile custody situation with rapper DDG, while continuing to release music and appear at major events like the Grammys and NAACP Image Awards alongside her sister Chloe.
Lasting Impact on Representation
Bailey’s casting as Ariel remains a milestone in Disney’s live-action remakes. It signaled a willingness to reimagine classic tales with greater diversity, opening doors for broader storytelling. Young fans, particularly Black girls, expressed joy at seeing a princess who looked like them, with viral videos capturing emotional reactions to Bailey’s performance.
Supporters argued that mermaids are fictional creatures, unbound by real-world racial constraints, and that talent should drive casting decisions. The film’s success at the box office, combined with strong streaming numbers on Disney+, underscored audience appetite for inclusive narratives.
Bailey has avoided fueling further division in her recent comments. Instead, she emphasizes internal validation over external approval. Her ability to emerge from the controversy stronger and more self-assured resonates with many young artists facing public scrutiny in the social media age.
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As she continues building her career — with potential projects in horror and other genres on the horizon — Bailey’s reflections on “The Little Mermaid” serve as a testament to resilience. The role that once placed her at the center of heated cultural debate now stands as a pivotal chapter that taught her to tune out negativity and amplify her own voice.
In an industry where public opinion can shift rapidly, Bailey’s approach offers a model of grace under pressure. “It was actually freeing,” she said of the experience — a reminder that even the loudest noise can ultimately clarify what matters most.
SEOUL, South Korea — BLACKPINK member Jisoo is receiving an outpouring of praise after gifting her agency staff luxury Dior handbags worth more than 4 million won (approximately $2,652) each, a generous gesture that has gone viral and stood in stark contrast to recent controversies plaguing the K-pop industry.
Blackpink’s member Jisoo
The 31-year-old singer-actress, who launched her own one-person management agency BLISSOO after parting ways with YG Entertainment for solo activities, personally selected and presented the high-end bags to employees as a token of appreciation for their hard work. Staff members shared photos of the gifts on social media, with some posting heartfelt messages like “I love you, CEO Jisoo,” quickly sparking widespread admiration online.
Reports indicate Jisoo spent at least 12 million won (around $7,956) on the gifts for four staff members, with some bags priced even higher. The items came from Dior, the luxury French brand for which Jisoo serves as a global ambassador, adding a personal touch that fans described as thoughtful and meaningful.
The news emerged in early April 2026 through fan accounts and entertainment media, with photos showing elegant Dior handbags in various styles. Employees expressed genuine gratitude, highlighting the gesture as more than a simple perk but a reflection of Jisoo’s caring leadership style since establishing BLISSOO.
In the competitive and often high-pressure world of K-pop, where idols and agencies frequently face criticism over unfair contracts, intense schedules and treatment of staff, Jisoo’s actions have resonated strongly. Netizens and fans have hailed her as a “world-class CEO,” praising her for fostering a positive workplace environment and showing respect to those supporting her career.
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One online commenter wrote, “This is how you treat people who work hard for you,” while others contrasted the story with recent industry scandals involving alleged power imbalances and exploitative practices at some agencies. The timing amplified the positive reaction, as discussions about idol welfare, mental health and fair treatment continue to circulate in Korean entertainment circles.
Jisoo, a member of one of the world’s biggest girl groups alongside Jennie, Rosé and Lisa, has built a multifaceted career as a solo artist, actress and brand ambassador. Her agency BLISSOO handles her solo endeavors, including music releases and acting projects, allowing greater control over her schedule and creative direction.
Fans noted that the luxury gifts align with Jisoo’s elegant image and her long-standing partnership with Dior. As a global ambassador, she frequently attends the brand’s fashion shows and events, making the choice of Dior bags a natural yet luxurious expression of thanks.
The story quickly spread across platforms like Instagram, TikTok and X, with hashtags related to Jisoo and the gifts trending. Supporters from the BLINK fandom celebrated the news as evidence of her kind personality, often citing past instances where she showed appreciation to staff and fans alike.
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Entertainment insiders suggest such gestures can boost employee morale and loyalty, particularly in smaller agencies where teams work closely with artists. Jisoo’s approach appears to emphasize gratitude and team spirit, qualities that have endeared her to both domestic and international audiences.
This positive spotlight comes amid broader conversations in the K-pop industry about artist-agency relationships. While some groups and idols have faced backlash over reported mistreatment or overly demanding conditions, stories like Jisoo’s offer a counter-narrative of mutual respect and generosity.
Jisoo debuted with BLACKPINK in 2016, and the group has achieved global success with hits like “DDU-DU DDU-DU,” “How You Like That” and “Pink Venom.” The members have increasingly pursued individual projects while maintaining strong group unity, with each establishing personal agencies for solo work.
As an actress, Jisoo has taken on roles in dramas and expanded her presence in entertainment beyond music. Her poised demeanor and versatile talents have earned her a dedicated following, and the recent gift-giving episode has only enhanced her reputation for humility and thoughtfulness despite her superstar status.
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BLISSOO has not issued an official statement on the gifts, but the staff’s social media posts served as authentic endorsements of the workplace culture Jisoo cultivates. In an industry where hierarchical structures sometimes lead to “gapjil” — a Korean term for abuse of power by those in superior positions — Jisoo’s actions stand out as the opposite: a leader uplifting her team.
Fans have drawn comparisons to other artists known for generous treatment of staff, noting that such stories humanize idols and strengthen fan connections. The Dior bags, while expensive, were seen less as flashy spending and more as a sincere thank-you for the behind-the-scenes efforts that support Jisoo’s busy schedule of music, acting, endorsements and BLACKPINK activities.
Social media reactions mixed admiration with lighthearted envy. “Jisoo treating her staff better than some companies treat their idols,” one user posted, capturing the sentiment. Others simply celebrated the heartwarming moment in a year filled with mixed K-pop news.
Jisoo’s generosity aligns with her public image as the elegant, warm-hearted “visual” of BLACKPINK, but also reveals a practical side of leadership. Running a personal agency requires managing a small but dedicated team, and investing in their well-being can contribute to long-term success and stability.
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As BLACKPINK continues its global dominance and individual members carve out solo paths, moments like this remind fans of the human element behind the glamour. Jisoo’s gift-giving has not only brightened her staff’s day but also provided a feel-good story that resonates far beyond the K-pop bubble.
While the luxury bags represent a significant expense, the real value, many observers say, lies in the message of appreciation. In an era where mental health and fair labor practices gain increasing attention in entertainment, Jisoo’s gesture offers a positive example of how success can be shared.
The story continues to circulate widely as of April 7, 2026, with more fans discovering the details and adding their praise. Whether through music, acting or thoughtful leadership, Jisoo keeps proving why she remains one of the most beloved figures in global pop culture.
For BLISSOO staff, the Dior bags serve as daily reminders of their CEO’s gratitude. For fans worldwide, the anecdote reinforces why they support Jisoo — not just for her talent, but for the kindness that shines through even in her professional decisions.
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In the fast-paced, high-stakes K-pop landscape, small acts of generosity can leave a lasting impression. Jisoo’s latest display of appreciation has certainly done just that, earning her even more admiration as both an artist and a leader.
Center for Medicare Director Chris Klomp joins ‘Mornings with Maria’ to outline the Trump administration’s latest Medicare rate update, defend new efforts to curb rising healthcare costs and highlight ongoing moves to lower prescription drug prices a
Falling prescription drug costs are emerging as a key development in the broader push to rein in U.S. health care spending, with new pricing shifts beginning to show up at the pharmacy counter.
Medicare Director Chris Klomp joined FOX Business’ Maria Bartiromo on “Mornings with Maria” to discuss how recent policy changes are starting to impact affordability across the health care system.
Klomp pointed to early signs that pricing pressure is easing, particularly for high-demand medications like GLP-1 drugs, which have surged in popularity but have remained out of reach for many patients. He attributed the recent price declines to actions taken by President Donald Trump to lower drug costs through new pricing initiatives.
FOX Business’ Gerri Willis reports on a Gallup poll showing 61% of Americans are greatly concerned about rising healthcare costs, surpassing worries about the economy and inflation.
“If you need a GLP-1, you’re now paying half of what you were paying just a couple of months ago before he announced those deals,” Klomp said.
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Klomp framed the pricing changes as part of a broader effort to address affordability challenges that have prevented many Americans from filling prescriptions.
Woman injecting a syringe of medicine into her stomach (David Petrus Ibars/Getty Images / Getty Images)
“That’s solving the problem for a quarter of Americans who can’t pick up a prescription when they get to the pharmacy counter because they can’t afford it right now,” Klomp said.
The price drop reflects a broader effort to align drug costs more closely with international benchmarks while increasing competition in the market. GLP-1 medications, commonly used for diabetes and weight management, have become a focal point in the affordability debate as demand continues to climb.
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eMed chief wellness officer Tom Brady and eMed CEO Linda Yaccarino discuss GLP-1 market growth and the company’s latest funding round on ‘Mornings with Maria.’
Klomp suggested the changes extend beyond a single drug class, pointing to similar trends in other treatments where costs have historically been a barrier to access.
“If you want to grow your family, you need to pick up fertility medicine again. You’re paying about half for those drugs, saving you thousands of dollars per cycle of treatment than you were just a couple months ago,” he said.
The shifts come as policymakers look for ways to reduce out-of-pocket costs while maintaining long-term sustainability in federal health care programs.
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“[Trump’s] delivering on affordability for every American family to be their healthiest self,” Klomp said.
PE-backed firm teams up with Royal Fulfillment for centres in New Jersey, Chicago and Los Angeles
fulfilmentcrowd’s CEO Lee Thompson(Image: fulfilmentcrowd)
Logistics tech specialist fulfilmentcrowd is expanding its US network with new centres in New Jersey, Chicago and Los Angeles.
Chorley-based fulfilmentcrowd has teamed up with American group Royal Fulfillment on the centres designed to “support high-volume eCommerce and B2B distribution across the United States” and to offer coast-to-coast coverage for brands serving the US market. They will replace the group’s two previous US sites.
Royal Fulfillment is a family-run operator with more than 18 years of industry experience. Its centres can handle both direct-to-consumer and large-scale retail distribution, and the business has worked with major retailers such as Amazon, Walmart and Sephora.
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Fulfilmentcrowd says its expanded US network will give its customers access to a wider range of US shipping services, including through carriers such as USPS, FedEx and DHL
Lee Thompson, CEO at fulfilmentcrowd, said: “The US is a critical growth market for many of our clients. With this three-centre network, we’re aiming to reduce operational friction at scale, giving global brands the ability to operate domestically across the US with speed, flexibility and cost control built in.”
He added: “This is about more than just adding locations. These centres add to a network that already reflects how modern brands operate: omnichannel, fast-moving and customer-first. Now we can support these requirements across the entire United States.”
Varney & Co. host Stuart Varney warns NYC Mayor Zohran Mamdani’s tax proposals could drive jobs, capital and residents out of New York as a $12.6B deficit looms.
JPMorgan Chase CEO Jamie Dimon warned that New York City and other cities with high taxes and regulatory burdens run the risk of losing businesses and workers to locales with more hospitable business climates.
Dimon released his annual letter to shareholders on Monday in conjunction with the firm’s 2025 annual report and said that companies need to weigh the benefits of operating in places like New York City against areas with lower taxes on businesses and individuals.
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“No matter who you are, you need to deal with reality and the truth. The truth is that while New York City has much going for it, particularly for financial companies (because of extraordinary local talent), it also has the highest city and state corporate taxes and the highest individual income and state taxes,” Dimon wrote.
“People often make this a moral or loyalty issue, but it is not. Companies need to remain competitive in this very tough, fast-moving world. And higher taxes lower returns on capital and less competitiveness by their nature,” he said.
JPMorgan Chase CEO Jamie Dimon said that cities and states have to compete to keep businesses in their jurisdictions. (Alexander Tamargo/Getty Images for America Business Forum)
Dimon said while companies relocating their headquarters or significant aspects of their operations to states with more favorable tax and regulatory regimes may be easier to track, those shifts happen at the employee level as well and can amount to significant moves for the workforce.
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“Additionally, individuals vote with their feet – you can already see a fairly large exodus of people and jobs out of some states with high taxes and high expenses (often due to high taxes and regulatory burdens). Sometimes you see companies leaving states, but migration also shows up in shifts of employees out of certain states,” Dimon wrote.
JPMorgan Chase has expanded its presence in Texas while its headcount has declined in New York City. (Tim Clayton/Corbis via Getty Images)
He explained how that dynamic has played out at JPMorgan, which has expanded its footprint in a low-tax state like Texas and will probably continue to do so.
“For example, while New York City is still our company’s global headquarters, we have shrunk our headcount in the city, from 30,000 a decade ago to 24,000 today, and increased our headcount in Texas, from 26,000 in 2015 to 32,000 today. This trend will likely continue,” Dimon said.
The JPMorgan CEO said that he has seen an exodus of corporations out of New York City before that was driven in part by the business climate, adding it can pose significant problems for city governments.
“Sometimes this can be a disaster for a city. I am reminded that in the 1970s, nearly half of the 125 Fortune 500 companies based in New York City left,” he wrote. “While mergers accounted for some departures, the price of doing business in New York City accounted for most: cost of taxes, office rents, labor and so on.”
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