Disney fans shocked by stunning Little Mermaid theory linking her to Peter Pan: ‘This explains everything’
- Disney fans have linked The Little Mermaid to a 1953 movie
- Many are shocked by the theory
Fans of The Little Mermaid have just come across a “wild” theory linking Ariel to another beloved Disney character — and the link fills a series of plot holes that have left millions scratching their heads for decades.
Many have been rewatching old Disney movies in anticipation of the upcoming live-action releases, and an eagle-eyed fan saw a young mermaid with a strong resemblance to Ariel in Peter Pan (1953).
The red-haired mermaid is one of many others who creep over Peter Pan at the beginning of the film.
The Little Mermaid (1989) explains that Ariel’s mother was taken by pirates in the Mermaid Lagoon – a location also prominent in Peter Pan – and killed in the process.
Fans have theorized that Captain Hook is the one who attacked Ariel’s mother, Athena, and it’s her effigy that rests on the hull of his ship.
Fans of The Little Mermaid have just stumbled upon a ‘wild’ theory linking Ariel to another beloved Disney character — and the link fills a series of plot holes that have left millions scratching their heads for decades
The Little Mermaid (1989) explains that Ariel’s mother was taken by pirates in the Mermaid Lagoon – a location also prominent in Peter Pan – when she was a child and killed in the process.
The green-tailed young mermaid in Peter Pan looks a lot like the 16-year-old from The Little Mermaid, and fans have speculated that the events of Peter Pan take place several years before Ariel’s journey.
Because of the 36-year gap between movies, fans are convinced that Ariel’s mom is the red-headed mermaid in Peter Pan.
In addition, the slight difference in tail color is attributed to the animation technology of the time.
Most later 20th century Disney movies are livelier than Peter Pan, Snow White, and other older cartoon classics.
Ivan, a Disney enthusiast, recently shared the theory on TikTok and caught the attention of thousands.
“This is crazy,” he said of the connection. “I can’t believe I just noticed this about The Little Mermaid.”
Many were similarly awestruck and shared their own theories about the film series.
“All the Disney movies are connected,” someone said. “That’s why Ariel’s father wouldn’t let her go to the coast – it’s because pirates captured his wife!”
Another said, “I always thought Eric’s father’s ship killed Athena—that’s why Triton hated humans so much.”
“I heard that Athena was a siren, which is why Ariel’s singing voice is so enchanting,” one woman wrote. “Maybe she lured Captain Hook to her, but he won the battle.”