Halle Bailey shared insights about her breakthrough role in the 2023 live-action remake of The Little Mermaid, which not only launched her Hollywood career but also taught her how to ignore negative online criticism. In a recent interview, Bailey described the experience as “beautiful” despite encountering racist backlash on social media.
She explained that the controversy ultimately became a liberating experience, helping her to focus on her inner voice and positive feedback rather than public negativity. Bailey reflected on the situation by saying she felt like she was observing herself from a distance, noting how people reacted to her portrayal.
Directed by Rob Marshall, The Little Mermaid featured Bailey alongside Jonah Hauer-King, Melissa McCarthy, and Javier Bardem. The film sparked significant cultural discussion, but Bailey emphasized that it boosted her confidence and prepared her for future challenges in the industry. She remarked, “It showed me the ropes… I feel more confident this time around because I’m like, Oh, I know what I’m getting into.”
Bailey, who initially gained recognition as part of the R&B duo Chloe x Halle with her sister Chloe, credited her upbringing in the entertainment world for keeping her grounded. Addressing the audience’s reactions, she noted, “None of this is real.”
Currently starring opposite Regé-Jean Page in You, Me & Tuscany, Bailey is embracing her new status as a leading lady in Hollywood. She described this phase as “kind of a new world for me” and expressed gratitude for the positive direction her career is taking.
