Halle Bailey has captured hearts as Ariel in Disney’s live-action adaptation of “The Little Mermaid,” a role that was highly sought after by numerous actors, including Odessa A’zion. However, A’zion’s audition experience proved to be less than memorable, as she recently recounted her misstep at the 2026 Academy Awards.
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While attending the prestigious event at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood on March 15, the 25-year-old actress shared with Variety her most embarrassing audition moment. She revealed that she had auditioned for the coveted role of Ariel but was ultimately unsuccessful. That disappointment stemmed from a particularly nerve-wracking performance during her audition.
A’zion explained that she had prepared for the audition by perfecting her rendition of the song “Part of Your World,” but things did not go according to plan. She recalled, “I was so nervous that I forgot the lyrics whilst singing it.” Adding to her anxiety, she had initially practiced the song in what she described as a “princess voice.” When the casting team requested that she sing it in her natural tone, she found herself unable to make the transition, resulting in a disheartening end to her audition.
“It was really embarrassing,” A’zion admitted candidly, describing how she left the audition wondering, “That was the most embarrassing thing on the planet Earth.” Her experience highlights the pressures and challenges that many actors often face while auditioning for significant roles.
The role of Ariel eventually went to Halle Bailey, who was announced as the cast member in July 2019 after a comprehensive search. Director Rob Marshall expressed confidence in Bailey’s abilities, stating that she possessed a unique blend of qualities needed for the character, including spirit, heart, and a magnificent singing voice. “It was abundantly clear that Halle possesses that rare combination… all intrinsic qualities necessary to play this iconic role,” he remarked.
Bailey’s casting did not come without controversy, however, as it ignited some racially charged backlash upon the announcement. Despite this negativity, Bailey remained focused on the joy of bringing the character to life. She told Variety, “I feel like I’m dreaming and I’m just grateful and I don’t pay attention to the negativity.” Her positivity was evident as she expressed her excitement about the role being greater than herself.
In the wake of the backlash, many defended Bailey’s casting, and Director Marshall also spoke out against the criticisms. In May 2023, he stated that he saw no issue in casting a woman of colour as Ariel, labelling critics as “narrow-minded people.” He recognised the positive impact Bailey could have on young viewers of colour, noting how powerful it was for them to see someone like themselves being represented on screen.
As “The Little Mermaid” premiered, Bailey was lauded as the “perfect Ariel” by critics, with her performance garnering significant praise. Many reviewers noted how she embodied the character with an impressive blend of innocence and depth, solidifying her place in the hearts of audiences.
Odessa A’zion’s candid account of her audition mishap serves as a reminder that even in the face of disappointment, the entertainment industry continues to thrive with a diverse range of talent. While she may not have been cast alongside Bailey, A’zion’s journey in Hollywood is just beginning, and she remains an actress to watch in the coming years.