Did You Catch the Illinois Connection in Disney’s New ‘The Little Mermaid’?

Disney's new live-action 'The Little Mermaid' features a cameo by a Rockford, Illinois native for one very significant reason.

Big Love for 'The Little Mermaid'

Ever since I was a kid I have been a HUGE Disney fan, and my daughters are absolutely following in my footsteps. Disney movies and princesses are a BIG deal in my house, and Ariel from 'The Little Mermaid' is one of our all-time favorites. (My oldest daughter has red hair and firmly believes she should be Ariel).

Ever since news broke that a new, live-action 'Little Mermaid' movie would be hitting theaters, my kids have been begging to go see it, (not even exaggerating), and this last weekend we finally got to go...it was FABULOUS!

'The Little Mermaid' Spoiler Alert

If you haven't been to see the new live-action 'Little Mermaid' yet, I have to tell you about the one blink-and-you-will-miss-it-scene that packs a very significant punch.

If you're a long-term Ariel lover like me, you may recognize the face in this scene from 'The Little Mermaid' but I know you will recognize this iconic voice if you listen carefully...

I spotted her right away in the theater, but that villager is none other than Disney's original Ariel,  Jodi Benson, who was raised right here in Rockford, Illinois!

Spotting a Rockford native in the new 'The Little Mermaid' movie is pretty darn cool, but the significance of that scene really gives me goosebumps. According to this article from Screen Rant;

The Little Mermaid’s use of a fork as a hairbrush has become an iconic aspect of the beloved Disney princess, so the fact that Benson is passing Bailey the “dinglehopper” is meant to represent the original Ariel handing over the reins and responsibility of the character to the new Ariel.

If you're not ready to let go of the "old" Ariel yet, don't worry, there's plenty of room in our world for two!

FYI, Jodi Benson isn't the only Illinois connection to Disney's new 'The Little Mermaid' movie. Do you know the other big one? Send us an app message with the answer, now!

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