By Globiscope | October 19, 2025

Jodi Benson Opens Up About Her Iconic Disney Role

It’s been 35 years since Jodi Benson gave life to Ariel, the cheerful and determined mermaid who captured hearts around the world in Disney’s 1989 classic The Little Mermaid. Now at 64, the actress is looking back on the character that defined her career and continues to inspire generations of fans.

Speaking at New York Comic-Con, Benson shared what made her relate so deeply to the beloved redheaded princess. “The quality of her tenacity is something I really connected with right away,” she explained. “When Ariel gets a ‘no,’ she just keeps moving forward until every door is shut in her face — and even then, she doesn’t give up.”

Ariel’s Rebellious Spirit and Independence

Beyond Ariel’s determination, Benson says she admires her “free and independent spirit,” even if it’s sometimes seen as rebellious. “Ariel isn’t afraid to take risks or chase her dreams,” Benson said. “That kind of courage is what makes her such a powerful character.”

A Personal Challenge: The Father-Daughter Bond

However, the actress revealed that not everything about Ariel’s story came naturally. Benson admitted she struggled to portray the mermaid’s close bond with her father, King Triton, due to her own childhood experiences.

“I didn’t have a relationship with my father — he left when I was 11,” she shared candidly. “That made it difficult for me to truly understand the father-daughter relationship that Ariel has.”

To help her connect emotionally with the role, Benson credited Howard Ashman, the film’s lyricist and producer, who guided her in creating that heartfelt connection on screen. “Howard was so supportive and helped me tap into those emotions,” she said. “He made it possible for me to build that bond for Ariel.”

A Timeless Disney Milestone

Released in 1989, The Little Mermaid became a massive success for Disney, revitalizing the studio’s animation legacy and introducing audiences to a new era of princesses. Ariel’s bravery, curiosity, and relentless optimism continue to make her one of Disney’s most beloved heroines — and for Jodi Benson, she remains a role close to her heart.