Sadly it still is considered shameful by society for a boy (or a male of any age) to like and identify with strong female characters, which is why the message that these illustrations convey is particularly important.
“I had the chance to visit [Halle] in London a few times and I can’t wait to see the film tonight and just give her the biggest hug and congratulations because I know that she has done an amazing job of capturing the heart and essence of who Ariel is in such a beautiful way.”
- Jodi Benson (aka the original Ariel) on Halle Bailey’s perfomance in the The Little Mermaid live-action
