Ariel (Once Upon a Time)

Ariel is a fictional character based on the titular character from Disney's animated film The Little Mermaid, appearing in the ABC fantasy drama series Once Upon a Time. She is portrayed by actress Joanna Garcia Swisher.

In Once Upon a Time, Ariel is a mermaid princess who dreams of seeing the world beyond the sea. She is depicted as kind, adventurous, and eager to help others, often acting as a voice of reason and compassion. Her story intertwines with those of other characters from fairy tales, including Snow White, Prince Charming, and particularly, Regina Mills (the Evil Queen).

Ariel's appearances in the series explore themes of forbidden love, selflessness, and the pursuit of one's dreams. She develops a friendship with Snow White, who encourages her to follow her heart. Her most significant storyline involves her relationship with Prince Eric, whom she saves from drowning. This relationship faces challenges due to Ursula's manipulations, who seeks to exploit Ariel's desire to be human.

The Once Upon a Time version of Ariel retains elements of her Disney counterpart, such as her red hair, green tail, and fascination with human objects. However, the series also explores her character in more complex ways, depicting her navigating difficult choices and facing moral dilemmas as she interacts with the various realms and characters within the show's narrative. Her strong moral compass and willingness to sacrifice for others are key aspects of her portrayal.