Jodi Benson Reveals Which Iteration of “The Little Mermaid”, Including Animation, Theater and Live-Action, Is Her Favorite

Jodi Benson Shares Her Favorite Version of ‘The Little Mermaid’

Renowned actress Jodi Benson, best known for her iconic role as Ariel in Disney’s ‘The Little Mermaid,’ recently disclosed her personal preference when it comes to the various iterations of the beloved tale. The star’s revelation came during The Voices of The Little Mermaid panel at New York Comic Con, where she engaged with fans and shared insights into her connection with the character.

Benson, who initially voiced Ariel in the original 1989 animated film, expressed a deep fondness for this classic version. She explained, “I think it’s hard to kind of go away from the original. That’s just because of all the emotion and the history and the experiences that are wrapped up into the original.” Despite her strong attachment to the animated film, she also acknowledged her admiration for the different retellings of the story in recent years.

In particular, Benson praised the 2023 live-action adaptation starring Halle Bailey and the numerous stage productions of The Little Mermaid that have graced theatres over the years. Reflecting on her connection with Ariel, Benson highlighted the character’s tenacity and independent spirit, qualities she resonates with personally. She remarked, “When she gets a no, she just keeps plowing forward until every door shuts in her face — figuratively.”

The actress further delved into the emotional aspects of her portrayal, revealing how certain elements of Ariel’s relationship dynamics were challenging for her to embody. Benson candidly shared her own struggles relating to the father-daughter bond depicted in the story, citing her personal experiences. However, she credited Howard Ashman, who played King Triton in the studio, for assisting her in navigating and portraying these complex emotions onscreen.

In a recent interview with PEOPLE, Benson reflected on the enduring impact of her character, noting how her connection with Ariel has evolved over the years. She described the character as an integral part of her identity, stating, “We’re going [almost 40] years of having this character, and I know her — and she is me — and we’re kind of combined … so it still just kind of amazes me that I have the privilege to be this character.”

Notably, Benson’s legacy as Ariel extends beyond the screen, as her daughter Delaney Benson followed in her footsteps by portraying the iconic character in a production of The Little Mermaid. The sentimental moment of witnessing her daughter take on the role was described by Benson as a profoundly moving experience, evoking tears of joy and pride.

As fans continue to cherish the timeless appeal of The Little Mermaid and its endearing characters, Jodi Benson’s heartfelt revelations offer a glimpse into the enduring magic of this beloved tale. Her personal connection to Ariel serves as a poignant reminder of the power of storytelling and the profound impact of cherished characters on both artists and audiences alike.

In a world where fairy tales come to life, Jodi Benson’s affinity for The Little Mermaid transcends mere storytelling—it embodies a deep-seated emotional bond that continues to resonate with fans of all ages. As the legacy of Ariel lives on through various adaptations and interpretations, Benson’s insights provide a window into the enduring allure of a timeless classic.