How Old Was Prince Eric and Ariel in The Little Mermaid?
In this article, we delve into the ages of two beloved Disney characters, Prince Eric and Ariel, in the enchanting tale of The Little Mermaid. Join us as we explore the differences in their ages between the original animated film and the recent live-action remake.
In the live-action version of The Little Mermaid, Ariel is portrayed as an 18-year-old. While the movie itself doesn’t explicitly mention her age, the production notes describe her as a “spirited 18-year-old.”
This age change deviates from the original animated film, where Ariel was depicted as being 16 years old. It is believed that this alteration was made to align with the casting choice of Halle Bailey, who was 20 years old during production.
Original Age of Ariel in The Little Mermaid
In Disney’s animated adaptation of The Little Mermaid, released in 1989, Ariel is portrayed as 16 years old. This age aligns with the original fairytale by Hans Christian Andersen and reflects the coming-of-age theme of the story.
By depicting Ariel as a teenager, Disney aimed to make her experiences and struggles relatable to teenage viewers, capturing the essence of adolescence.
The decision to depict Ariel as a 16-year-old character was likely driven by the desire to appeal to the film’s target audience.
This age group is often intrigued by tales of self-discovery, exploration, and the challenges that come with growing up. By making Ariel 16 years old, Disney created a character with whom young audiences could empathize and connect on a deeper level.
The age of 16 also carries symbolic significance. It is an age where individuals often experience significant changes and start to navigate their identity and desires in a rapidly changing world.
Ariel’s journey of self-discovery, her longing for independence, and her desire to explore the human world align with the challenges faced by many teenagers.
This age choice allows young viewers to see their own struggles and aspirations reflected in the character of Ariel, making her story all the more compelling and relatable.
Prince Eric’s Age in The Little Mermaid
In Disney’s animated film, The Little Mermaid, the age of Prince Eric is not explicitly mentioned. However, according to the official novelization of the movie, Eric is stated to be 18 years old. This tidbit of information may be overlooked by viewers, as his age is not a central focus of the story.
Nevertheless, knowing his age provides some context to his character and his interactions with Ariel.
While Ariel’s age has had some variation in different adaptations of The Little Mermaid, the decision to make Prince Eric 18 years old in the novelization aligns with the age difference between the two characters.
This age difference of two years may have played a role in the live-action remake, where Ariel’s age was increased to 18 as well. Having both characters closer in age can enhance the believability of their connection and romantic storyline.
Although Prince Eric may not be the most prominent character in The Little Mermaid franchise, his role is crucial to the overall narrative.
His age, while not heavily emphasized, adds another layer to his character development and relationships. Whether it’s in the animated film, the novelization, or other adaptations, knowing Prince Eric’s age helps to deepen our understanding of his role in Ariel’s journey.
Prince Eric in The Little Mermaid Franchise
Prince Eric holds a special place in The Little Mermaid franchise, captivating audiences with his charm and bravery.
In various adaptations, Eric’s character is further explored, revealing his skills and talents that make him an iconic figure in the beloved story.
In the Broadway musical adaptation of The Little Mermaid, Prince Eric’s role is expanded, giving him more depth and dimension.
He showcases his prowess as an accomplished mariner, commanding attention with his captivating presence on stage. The Broadway version also delves into Eric’s journey through additional songs and a captivating subplot centered around a singing competition.
Aside from the theatrical adaptation, Prince Eric’s prominence extends to the world of video games.
In the popular Kingdom Hearts series, Eric plays a significant role in Ariel’s storyline, aiding her in her quest and becoming an essential part of her journey.
Throughout The Little Mermaid franchise, Prince Eric’s deep love for Ariel and their eventual union remain vital to his character arc.
Whether it be on stage or in the gaming world, Eric’s strength, determination, and unwavering commitment to Ariel continue to captivate audiences of all ages.
