Disney Defends Casting of Melissa McCarthy as Ursula Amid Outcry Over Lack of Drag Representation

Make up artist Peter Smith King was criticized for shaping the look of Ursula despite his lack of experience in drag makeup.
The original Ursula was inspired by drag icon Divine, which stirred controversy when a non-drag artist was hired for the live-action film.
King responded to the backlash, calling the comments he received "offensive" and "ridiculous."
He noted that the final look of Ursula was a culmination of conversations between himself and Melissa McCarthy, and was not based on any drag acts.
The live-action remake of The Little Mermaid has made over $95 million at the box office since its release.