Halle Bailey has landed a role that marks a new chapter in her career-a musical! The “The Little Mermaid” star has officially joined a very special Universal Pictures’ untitled Pharrell Williams and Michel Gondry (“Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind”) project, a coming-of-age musical set in Virginia Beach in the summer of 1977 inspired by Atlantis Apartments, Williams’ childhood neighborhood. 

The project is said to be based on a script by Martin Hynes (“Toy Story 4”) and Steven Levenson (“Tick, Tick…Boom!”). Kelvin Harrison Jr. and Oscar-winner Da’Vine Joy Randolph have also joined the cast.  

Bailey, a new mom, has been tirelessly pursuing her acting career since her theatrical debut in the live-action version of “The Little Mermaid.” The 24-year-old thespian's dedication to her craft is evident in her performances, whether it's as a mermaid getting a chance to walk on land in "The Little Mermaid," or as young Nettie in Blitz Bazawule’s “The Color Purple,” where she portrayed a character who was tender, lovable, and strong. 

However, being a mother is Bailey’s biggest life highlight thus far and she takes that honor seriously and wants to protect her son from the spotlight that illuminates her. She was honored with an Essence Black Women In Hollywood award this year and during her speech, she shared that the greatest joy in her life was becoming a mother to her son, Halo. “He is the greatest blessing and I had no obligation to expose him, me or my family to that unyielding spotlight.”

Not only is Bailey a talented actress, but she is also a versatile musician. She has recently released two solo tracks, “Angel” in 2023 and “In Your Hands” this year. “Angel” was Bailey’s first non-theatrical solo effort, outside of her music with her sister, Chloe Bailey. Together, the two make Chloe x Halle, the vocal sister duo with innovative, harmonic tunes.

Halle’s voice is undeniably gorgeous, so her teaming up with Pharrell for a musical will surely be a treat!