At Destination D23 2025, the Part of Our World panel D23 gave fans an emotional journey back under the sea. Disney Legend Jodi Benson, the voice of Ariel, joined Ron Clements, co-director of The Little Mermaid, to share behind-the-scenes stories from the film that launched the Disney Renaissance.
Part of Our World: Behind The Little Mermaid’s Creation
Ron Clements recalled how he pitched the story after discovering Hans Christian Andersen’s fairy tale in a bookstore. The project faced early setbacks but regained momentum after receiving renewed interest from Disney leadership. Working with lyricist Howard Ashman and composer Alan Menken, the team anchored Ariel’s character with a song meant to echo “Somewhere Over the Rainbow.” Ashman immediately responded with the phrase that became the heart of the film: “Part of Your World.”
Jodi Benson at Destination D23
Jodi Benson shared her casting experience. She auditioned among more than 80 actresses and impressed Howard Ashman and Alan Menken at a pivotal table read. The recording of “Part of Your World” took hours in the booth, with Ashman coaching her to deliver a soft, personal performance. When a technical error ruined the first recording, she repeated the marathon session, capturing the vulnerability that defined Ariel.
Creative Breakthroughs in The Little Mermaid
Clements explained how animator Glen Keane shifted Ariel’s design after hearing Benson’s voice, blending performance with visual artistry. Merchandise challenges also surfaced: the first Ariel dolls featured strawberry-blonde hair because manufacturers doubted red hair would sell. That decision was quickly reversed, giving fans the Ariel they know today.
Lasting Legacy of the Part of Our World Panel D23
The panel concluded with hugs and expressions of gratitude between Benson and Clements, reminding fans that the magic of Disney lies not only in the stories but in the people who bring them to life. Their reflections showed why The Little Mermaid remains a cornerstone of Disney animation and why the Part of Our World panel at D23 resonated with so many attendees.
