Despite there being countless reports Harry Styles being officially cast as Prince Eric in Disney's live-action remake of
The Little Mermaid, it turns out that the former One Direction lead won't play the role after all.
His name began circling the project in July but developments were stunted in August when it was
reportedly revealed that Styles had turned down the role of Ariel's love interest. The report which claimed that stated, despite declining a role, Styles is a fan of the project and those involved with it.
The singer-turned-actor recently reiterated this as well as revealed why he turned down the role in the first place — during an interview with
The Face.
“It was discussed,” Styles confirms that he was up for the role.
“I want to put music out and focus on that for a while. But everyone involved in it was amazing, so I think it’s going to be great. I’ll enjoy watching it, I’m sure.”
Halle Bailey will play the titular role of Ariel in
The Little Mermaid remake. Jacob Tremblay will play Flounder and Awkwafina will play Scuttle. Melissa McCarthy is in talks to play the villainous role of Ursula. Rob Marshall is attached as director and the film will feature songs by Alan Menken and Lin-Manuel Miranda.