Thescreescore – The enchanting depths of Disney’s live-action The Little Mermaid might yet be revisited, as Prince Eric himself, Jonah Hauer-King, has offered a wave of optimism regarding a potential sequel. This exclusive revelation comes amidst fervent fan speculation and Disney’s ongoing strategy of reimagining its animated classics, sparking renewed hope for a return to Atlantica.
In a candid conversation with Tatiana Hullender for thescreescore.com, Hauer-King expressed enthusiastic openness to donning Prince Eric’s regal attire once more. "Why not?" he mused, highlighting his enduring camaraderie with co-star Halle Bailey, whom he describes as "still a very dear friend." Reflecting on the initial production, he recalled having "a great time," adding, "If you’re up for it, I’m down." He even pondered the narrative possibilities, referencing the animated follow-up, The Little Mermaid II: Return to the Sea, which famously explores Ariel and Eric’s parenthood and a reversal of the original’s premise, noting, "They have a child, right? Yeah, and then it’s the reverse, right?"
The 2023 live-action adaptation, arriving 34 years after its animated predecessor, swam to a global box office total of $569.6 million. While a respectable sum, its journey was not without turbulence. The film experienced moderate success domestically but struggled to resonate internationally, ultimately leading to a reported $5 million loss for the studio. This financial tightrope walk casts a shadow of caution over the prospect of a direct continuation, especially considering the lukewarm reception of the animated sequel, Return to the Sea, which critics and audiences largely panned.
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Disney’s broader live-action strategy has yielded a mixed bag of fortunes. While films like Lilo & Stitch soared to a billion-dollar success, others such as Snow White and Moana faced underwhelming theatrical performances. This varied track record, encompassing adaptations like Beauty and the Beast, Dumbo, Aladdin, and Mulan, undoubtedly influences executive decisions regarding high-budget follow-ups.
Despite the financial complexities and the animated sequel’s critical fate, the allure of a return to Atlantica remains strong within the creative team. Prior to the live-action film’s release, whispers circulated about studio executives keen on seeing Bailey reprise her iconic role. Director Rob Marshall, alongside Bailey and Hauer-King, has consistently voiced interest in diving back into the enchanting world. The collective enthusiasm from the talent involved presents a compelling argument for a sequel, should Disney decide to take the plunge.
Since his princely turn, Hauer-King has been busy charting a diverse course through film and television, with roles in I Know What You Did Last Summer, A House of Dynamite, The Tattooist of Auschwitz, and a stint in Doctor Who. His latest project, The Face of Horror, is set to premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival, which commenced just yesterday, September 10.
Looking ahead, Disney’s live-action pipeline remains robust. Tangled is slated for March 31, 2028, followed swiftly by Lilo & Stitch 2 on May 26. Other intriguing projects reportedly in development include a Gaston spinoff from Beauty and the Beast, a Cinderella offshoot titled Stepsisters, and a live-action Princess Tiana movie inspired by The Princess and the Frog. While release dates for these latter projects are yet to be announced, and Disney has kept mum on officially sanctioning a Little Mermaid sequel, the readiness of its stars and director to embark on another undersea adventure is undeniable.
The question of whether Ariel and Eric’s story will continue on the big screen hangs tantalizingly in the balance. While the studio weighs financial prudence against creative passion and fan demand, the clear eagerness of its leading man, Jonah Hauer-King, certainly adds a vibrant splash of hope to the waters.
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