1. Ariel’s Signature Hair Flip Came From Her Voice Actor
Did you know that Ariel’s iconic hair flip in “The Little Mermaid” was inspired by her voice actor, Jodi Benson? Jodi would often flip her hair during the recording sessions, and the animators thought it was so charming that they decided to incorporate it into Ariel’s character. This little detail added a personal touch to Ariel and made her even more relatable to audiences.
2. Belle’s Love for Books Mirrors Her Voice Actor’s Passion
Paige O’Hara, who voiced Belle in “Beauty and the Beast,” is an avid reader just like her character. During the recording process, Paige shared her love for books with the animators, which influenced how they portrayed Belle’s enthusiasm for reading. This connection made Belle’s character feel more genuine and heartfelt.
3. Mulan’s Determination Reflects Ming-Na Wen’s Own Journey
Ming-Na Wen, the voice behind Mulan, brought a lot of her own determination and spirit to the role. Ming-Na’s personal experiences and struggles to succeed in her career helped shape Mulan’s character. The animators took note of Ming-Na’s resilience and used it to add depth to Mulan’s journey, making her a strong and inspiring character.
4. Rapunzel’s Playfulness Was Inspired by Mandy Moore
Mandy Moore, who voiced Rapunzel in “Tangled,” has a naturally playful and bubbly personality. The animators observed Mandy’s lighthearted nature during recording sessions and decided to infuse Rapunzel with the same energy. This choice made Rapunzel’s character feel lively and endearing, adding to the charm of the movie.
