Overview
- A'Zion told CNN and Variety at the 98th Academy Awards that she forgot the lyrics to Part of Your World during her audition and did not receive a callback.
- She said she had memorized the song in a "princess" voice and struggled to perform it in her natural voice when asked.
- The role of Ariel ultimately went to Halle Bailey, with director Rob Marshall citing her voice and screen qualities after an extensive search.
- Disney's live-action The Little Mermaid was delayed by the pandemic, opened in May 2023, and grossed about $560 million worldwide with strong notices for Bailey.
- A'Zion has since broken out with HBO's I Love LA and earned Actor Awards and BAFTA supporting nominations, attending the Oscars with Marty Supreme, which has nine nominations including Best Picture.