" They became more and more ridiculous the more I worked with her , the more I realized how incredible she was and how born she was for the role . "

Jonah Hauer-King, who plays the charming Prince Eric in Disney’s live-actionThe Little Mermaid, recently revealed in a new interview withSquare Milesome of his thoughts on the controversy surroundingHalle Baileybeing cast as Ariel.

When asked about theracist backlashsurrounding Disney’s initial announcement that Halle would take on the role of the iconic red-haired mermaid, Jonah noted how the positive reactions outshined the negative ones.

The 28-year-old English actor said, “[The negative critiques] became more and more ridiculous the more I worked with her, the more I realized how incredible she was and how born she was for the role.”

Disney’s animatedThe Little Mermaid(1989) was based on Hans Christian Andersen’s 19th-century story, and Jonah addressed those who were upset about the remake’s “accuracy.”

“It’s fascinating that people didn’t mind all of the changes that were made from [the original story],” he said.

Halle and Jonah aren’t afraid to show off theirloving friendship, and Jonah was quick to praise his costar in the interview: “I was so impressed that [Halle] deals with everything with such graciousness and elegance.”

The duo appear to be very close onscreen and off, and it makes a lot of sense, considering the amazing chemistry they have together.

If you’re itching to see Halle and Jonah on the big screen,The Little Mermaidis out now!

Jonah and Halle holding hands on the red carpet

Jonah and Halle smiling at each other

Close-up of Jonah sticking his tongue out

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Jonah sitting with a cutout of Halle as Ariel

Jonah and Halle picking out from behind a gate in a scene from the movie

Jonah and Halle hugging on the set