Although The Little Mermaid is one of the classic Disney animated movies that is set to join Beauty and the Beast, The Jungle Book, and Cinderella with a new live-action film adaptation, with new songs by Lin Manuel Miranda, it’s still several years away. Mulan, The Lion King, and Aladdin are all on the docket first, but don’t worry, Little Mermaid fans — a live-action version of Ariel is coming much sooner than that, just not on movie theater screens.
According to a report from Deadline, Disney-owned ABC is bringing back the classic The Wonderful World of Disney show, and as their first new special, they are getting in on the live musical adaptation trend with Ariel and her undersea friends. The Wonderful World Of Disney: The Little Mermaid Live! will be a two hour special airing on October 3, that will meld Disney’s animated classic The Little Mermaid with live musical performances in a live action/animation hybrid presentation.
The special presentation will feature a cast of  “celebrity artists†who will perform Alan Menken and Howard Ashman’s songs from the Oscar-winning 1989 classic, but just who those celebrity artists are is still being kept under wraps.
So which “celebrity artists” are possibilities for this live musical? Well, a hint might have already happened last summer at the Hollywood Bowl, when a cast of A-list artists performed the roles in a sing along tribute, including Sara Bareilles as Ariel, Rebel Wilson as Ursula, Darren Criss as Eric, Tituss Burgess as Sebastian, John Stamos as Chef Louis, Norm Lewis as Triton, and Joshua Colley as Flounder. One or all of these names could wind up in the ABC musical.
So who do we think should play the “Under the Sea” denizens of Triton’s kingdom and their pals? Here are our top choices:
Ariel / Deborah Ann Woll
Did you know that current Daredevil star and former True Blood “baby vamp” Deborah Ann Woll can sing? Just watch the video at this link and tell me she’s not a perfect Ariel. Also, she’s been a redhead, so no terrible cheap wigs.
Sebastian / Tituss Burgess
The co-star of the Netflix original series Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt, Tituss Burgess originated the role of Sebastian on Broadway, and brought him to life again for the Hollywood Bowl performance last year. There is still nobody better suited for the part of the Ariel’s crabby companion and mentor.
Prince Eric / Darren Criss
I can’t think of a better choice for  Prince Eric than former Hedwig and the Angry Inch star Darren Criss, who played the part at the recent Hollywood Bowl show. He’s got the vocal chops and pretty much looks like the character come to life. If you can’t get him, I suggest Supergirl star Jeremy Jordan, who also has serious Broadway cred.
Ursula/ Bette Midler
For the part of the Sea Witch, I vote for Disney stalwart Bette Midler. She’s been a witch before (Hocus Pocus anyone?), and although she’s 71, she’s still got the vocal chops, as she’s currently starring in a new Broadway version of Hello, Dolly. If you can’t get Bette, then Rebel Wilson is a fine choice too.
King Triton / Mandy Patinkin
Television and Broadway star Mandy Patinkin has now reached the “old grizzled actor” stage that makes him perfect for Ariel’s disapproving daddy.
Ross Matthews /Flounder
The comedian and RuPaul’s Drag Race judge has the perfect little kid voice and the comic timing for Ariel’s bestie.
Nathan Lane / Scuttle
Since he won’t get to reprise his role as Timon in the live-action Lion King, how about Nathan Lane become our new befuddled seagull Scuttle?
Who would you love to see in a live musical version of The Little Mermaid? Be sure to let us know down below in the comments.
Images: Walt Disney Company / World of Wonder
