#33: Part of Your World
Ariel from The Little Mermaid is one of the most beloved Disney princesses. The film was a huge success when it came out in 1989, and it has continued to charm young kids who dream of mermaid princessdom. Ariel has the signature “Disney princess” look with her big eyes and perfect hair, but she’s not a complete figment of the imagination.
Rumors floated around for years after The Little Mermaid was released that the animators based Ariel on actress Alyssa Milano. The rumors were finally confirmed, and it’s said that animator Glen Keane drew inspiration from pictures of a young Alyssa Milano in order to learn what was considered attractive to young girls at the time. Alyssa Milano is beautiful, so we’d consider her beauty to be princess status.