Screenwriter David Magee has found himself at the center of a storm of online attacks and controversy following allegations that he disrespected Kate Middleton, the Duchess of Cambridge, in the upcoming Disney film, “The Little Mermaid.”
Amidst a social media frenzy, a dedicated Twitter account called “Prince & Princess of Wales” sent out a message urging followers to remember Magee moving forward. With thousands of supporters, the account’s call to action further amplified the outrage surrounding the alleged insult.
Scheduled to hit the screens on May 26, the film has faced criticism for what some believe to be a disrespectful portrayal of Middleton. The Telegraph reported that Disney’s adaptation of “The Little Mermaid” includes a scene that appears to mock the late Princess Diana.
The highly anticipated movie stars newcomer Halle Bailey as the enchanting mermaid Ariel, who falls in love with a dashing prince and willingly sacrifices her voice to be with him. However, controversy arose during the film’s first encounter between Ariel and Prince Eric when he attempts to guess her name. His initial guess, “Diana,” is followed by “Catherine,” which happens to be the first name of the Princess of Wales. Ariel’s response to the mention of Catherine is depicted as a disdainful facial expression, implying that it is not her name.
As discussions surrounding the alleged insult continue to intensify, it is worth noting that the film already carries a royal connection. Meghan Markle drew parallels between herself and Ariel during her widely publicized interview with Oprah Winfrey in 2021.
Amidst the fervor, David Magee now finds himself at the center of online backlash and controversy. The heated debates surrounding the release of “The Little Mermaid” have shone a spotlight on the alleged disrespect towards Kate Middleton, with social media serving as the battleground for opposing viewpoints on the matter. As the film’s premiere draws nearer, it remains to be seen how this controversy will impact its reception and future discussions about artistic interpretations and the portrayal of real-life figures.
