Common Sense Media Review
By Ashley Moulton
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Fresh take on beloved mermaid will delight littlest viewers.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 2+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
Disney Jr.'s Ariel
What's the Story?
In DISNEY JR.'S ARIEL, the favorite characters of The Little Mermaid return in a reimagined Atlantica. Mermaid princess Ariel (voiced by Mykal-Michelle Harris) lives under the sea with her father, King Triton (Taye Diggs), and twin sisters Alanna and Ayanna. Ariel plays with her best merfriends, Lucia and Fernie, and her fish friend Flounder. They go to music class with teacher Sebastian (Kevin Michael Richardson) and learn magic from Tantie Ursula (Amber Riley). Ariel and her friends face a different challenge each day, whether it be getting ready for a big race, learning magic, or writing a song for Atlantica Day. They learn lessons along the way, and sing along to the melodies of the Caribbean.
Is It Any Good?
Grown-ups who find the 1989 Little Mermaid problematic or worry about Ursula giving their preschoolers nightmares can rest assured: Disney has taken inspiration from the original and live-action movies, but made Ariel appropriate for preschoolers. DISNEY JR.'S ARIEL is a delight: With its gorgeous visuals, preschooler-relatable stories, and fun Caribbean-inspired pop songs, wannabe merkids will love this show. Grown-ups will appreciate its strong positive messages and representation of diverse Caribbean cultures. There's no Ariel changing her identity to satisfy a romantic partner; instead she's a confident and self-assured strong girl lead. Grown-ups can feel great about letting kids get swept up in the Disney magic and positive vibes of this adorable show.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about Ariel's excellent communication skills. Can you think of a time when she tells her friends how she feels, or apologizes for a mistake?
Young kids might have a difficult time learning social-emotional skills from stories, so talk about the "lesson" or "moral" from today's episode with your child.
TV Details
- Premiere date : June 27, 2024
- Cast : Taye Diggs , Mykal-Michelle Harris , Amber Riley
- Networks : Disney Junior , Disney+
- Genre : Educational
- Topics : Fantasy ( Magic ) , Friendship , Animals ( Ocean Creatures )
- Character Strengths : Communication
- TV rating :
- Awards : Common Sense Selection , NAACP Image Award - NAACP Image Award Nominee
- Last updated : September 21, 2025
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