Rosario Monachino
Aladdin star Mena Massoud has deleted his Twitter account following a backlash over his comments about The Little Mermaid.
The Egyptian-Canadian actor, 31, played the titular character in the 2019 live-action adaption of the Disney film – which also stars Will Smith.
Along with his role in Aladdin, Massoud has also starred in the Amazon series Jack Ryan and the Hulu series Reprisal.
Massoud’s recent comments about the upcoming The Little Mermaid movie are now seeing him receive a wave of criticism.
Watch the trailer for The Little Mermaid below…
The popular Disney film’s live-action adaptation has been heavily scrutinised since it was announced.
The casting of Halle Bailey, a Black actress, as the lead character Ariel angered many people, as the original animated character was fair-skinned and red-haired.
Some have also shared their concern that the new film may stray too far from the original storyline and plot.
While others have recently taken issue with the songs – as composer Alan Menken has admitted to updating some of the iconic tracks from the animated movie.
Despite the challenges it has faced, The Little Mermaid has remained one of the most anticipated movies of the year.
Related Article: Halle Bailey Says Backlash To Her Little Mermaid Casting Is ‘Not Really A Shock Anymore’
Related Article: Little Girl’s Heartwarming Reaction To New Little Mermaid Goes Viral
It is expected to pull in huge numbers at the box office, with The Hollywood Handle explaining: “The Little Mermaid is tracking to $115 million on its domestic box office opening weekend.”
The account adds that in comparison, Aladdin earnt $112 million on its opening weekend.
However, it seems Massoud disagrees with this prediction and has offered his own thoughts.
In a now-deleted tweet, the Aladdin star pens: “Our film was unique in that audiences went to watch it multiple times. It’s the only way we reached the billion-dollar mark with our opening.
“My guess is [The Little Mermaid] doesn’t cross the billion mark but will undoubtedly get a sequel.”
His comments have been poorly received by Disney fans – who have hit out at Massoud.
One person says: “He should [have] never been shady to The Little Mermaid because he was bitter Aladdin didn’t get a sequel.”
“What was the point of him tweeting that,” questions another fan.
Someone else insists: “The OG Little Mermaid is like three times more loved than OG Aladdin, I think that’ll play into the box office.”
A fourth person pens: “I loved Aladdin and literally on top five of my most fave Disney remakes.
“Being pessimistic about a movie that hasn’t been out yet but praised by critics is just disappointing. I’m so disappointed in you.”
‘THE LITTLE MERMAID’ is tracking to earn $115M on its domestic box office opening weekend.
In comparison, ‘ALADDIN’ earned $112M on its opening. pic.twitter.com/vpIoYcYcQ2
— The Hollywood Handle (@hollywoodhandle) May 12, 2023
A fifth adds: He’s weird for saying that. ANYWAYS, we will be heading to the theatres to see The Little Mermaid!”
Massoud is yet to respond to the backlash and has since deleted his Twitter account.
He has been open about his career after starring in Aladdin – candidly revealing that he has struggled to get an audition following the billion-dollar movie.
Related Article: Halle Bailey Has ‘Perfect Face’ To Play Little Mermaid, Beauty Expert Says
Related Article: Original Little Mermaid Actress Speaks Out As Trailer Gets 1.7 Million Dislikes
Speaking to the Daily Beast, he says: “I want people to know that it’s not always dandelions and roses when you’re doing something like Aladdin.
“‘He must have made millions. He must be getting all these offers’.
“It’s none of those things. I haven’t had a single audition since Aladdin came out.”
Watch our Video of the Day below…
Do you have a story for us? If so, email us at [email protected]. All contact will be treated in confidence.
