Halle Bailey is no stranger to backlash. The internet exploded with opinions when Disney and director Rob Marshall announced that the actress and recording artist would play Princess Ariel in the upcoming live-action version of  The Little Mermaid.
While audiences were quick to praise or condemn Bailey’s casting, Queen Bey herself mentored Halle when she needed it the most. Bailey told Entertainment Weekly that Beyonce was one of her “biggest inspirations since [she] was three.”
Halle is used to being a part of the music duo, Chloe x Halle, with her sister Chloe Bailey, and was scared to take on such a bring project on her own. According to Halle, Beyonce advised her to  “stand in [her] power and to not give up.” Bailey continued, “That I can do this and believe in myself.”
Coming from one of those most powerful ladies in entertainment, these powerful words have even more of an impact. Not only does Halle Bailey have Beyonce’s legendary support, but the full weight of the Beyhive behind her. Beyonce is a pro at curbing hate and has acted in the Disney world as well. The singer provided the voice of Nala in the live-action remake of The Lion King in 2019, alongside Donald Glover’s Simba.
Halle Bailey‘s much-anticipated performance in The Little Mermaid will release theatrically at the end of May. Less than two months away! Fans are also looking forward to Melissa McCarthy’s interpretation of Ursula the sea witch. The classic score will have some new songs from a powerhouse musical team! The illustrious Alan Menken is back to add some more magic under the sea, along with the celebrated Lin Manuel-Miranda. Javier Bardem will also star as Ariel’s strict father and leader of the sea, King Triton.
READ MORE: Halle Bailey Describes Brutal “13 Hour” Water Shoots for “The Little Mermaid”
Bailey was cast in the role in 2018, and suddenly thrust into stardom when she was 18 years old. Five years later, Bailey now age 23, The Little Mermaid movie is set to premiere on May 26. Luckily Halle Bailey’s close relationship with Beyonce will be a source of strength once audiences finally see her work in a few weeks.