Harry Styles rejects Prince Eric’s role in the remake of The Little Mermaid?

It’s roughly been a month since Disney not only announced the live-action remake of The Little Mermaid (1989) but they also revealed that singer-actress Halle Bailey will be Ariel, a mermaid princess who dreams of being a human, while Melissa McCarthy is playing her evil aunt Ursula.

Director Rob Marshall, in a Disney release, was quoted saying, "It was abundantly clear that Halle possesses that rare combination of spirit, heart, youth, innocence, and substance — plus a glorious singing voice — all intrinsic qualities necessary to play this iconic role."

(Also Read: Disney's The Little Mermaid, Ariel gets a new face!)

Ever since the announcement, the audience has been eagerly waiting for Disney to finalize their Prince Eric, Ariel’s love interest. After many speculations, rumours started doing rounds that One Direction star Harry Styles might be finalized to play the lead role in the live-action remake.

As per a close source, as reported by Variety, the initial reports about Harry’s casting were premature and that he made the decision to move on amicably. Disney has already begun looking at others for the part and, according to sources, a decision should come shortly.

Harry Styles made his acting debut in Hollywood with Christopher Nolan’s, Dunkirk an epic drama based the events that took place during the World War 2. Before being in talks for the role of Prince Eric, the 25-year-old singer-actor also made headlines for being into consideration to play Elvis Presley in Baz Luhrmann's movie musical, which was later offered to Austin Butler.

(Also Read: Austin Butler to play King of Rock and Roll Elvis Presley!)

The original The Little Mermaid was a hit when it was made 30 years ago and was credited with sparking a Disney animation renaissance. The story, about a mermaid who falls in love with a human named Eric, introduced audiences to classic tunes like 'Under the Sea', 'Part of Your World' and 'Kiss the Girl'. 

The new live-action movie will be directed by Rob Marshall and written by David Magee. The upcoming film will incorporate original songs from the 1989 animated classic, as well as new tunes from original composer Alan Menken with lyrics by Lin-Manuel Miranda.

Stay tuned for more updates!

Credits: Variety