Queen Latifah to star as Ursula for Little Mermaid live event – and we can’t wait

6 August 2019, 12:47 | Updated: 6 August 2019, 12:51

The exclusive concert will feature Alan Menken’s iconic music to the ‘90s Disney film classic and is due to take place later this year.

ABC has announced today that Queen Latifah will be starring as Ursula in its live concert remake of Disney’s The Little Mermaid.

Also known as Dana Elaine Owens, Latifah is well known for her rapping, singing, songwriting and acting – and now she’s adding another string to her bow by taking part in the Broadway-inspired show.

ABC will be blending elements of the original animated film with live performances of Alan Menken and Howard Ashman’s iconic songs, so the event will surely be a hit with music and film fans.

Joining Queen Latifah in the stellar cast are R&B singer Shaggy, who plays loveable crab Sebastian, and actress Auli’I Cravalho (Moana, Rise) as Ariel, with further casting to be announced.

There’s already a buzz around the event, with Queen Latifah, her fans and even a real life merman sharing their excitement:

And it seems as though Queen Latifah might have some *friendly* competition, as our favourite hip-hop flautist Lizzo has shared a video of herself dressed as Ursula, belting out the words to ‘Poor Unfortunate Souls’.

It’s certainly a great year for The Little Mermaid, with a live-action film remake starring Halle Bailey also in the works.

The Little Mermaid live stage show is due to take place at 8pm on 5 November 2019 and will be aired as part of the Wonderful World of Disney series.