Who Plays Ursula in The Little Mermaid: Roles and Performers

Overview of Ursula and Key Performers

Ursula, the iconic sea witch in Disney’s The Little Mermaid, is brought to life by distinct performers across film, stage, and other media. This overview answers directly: in the original 1989 animated film, Ursula is voiced by Pat Carroll; in the Broadway musical, the role originated with Eartha Kitt and was later performed by others such as Tituss Burgess in the 2007–2008 production. Below, we break down notable portrayals, responsibilities of the role, and career context for each performer.

Disney Animated Film (1989)

Pat Carroll as Ursula

Pat Carroll provided the voice of Ursula in The Little Mermaid (1989). Her performance defined the character’s deep, theatrical presence and memorable songs, including “Poor Unfortunate Souls.” Carroll’s background in stage, radio, and voice work helped translate Ursula into a Disney icon while maintaining the villain’s wit and menace.

Broadway Stage Origin and Subsequent Performers

Eartha Kitt: Original Broadway Ursula

Eartha Kitt originated the role of Ursula on Broadway in the 2007 musical adaptation of The Little Mermaid. Her star power and commanding stage presence brought new gravity and glamour to the role. Kitt’s performance balanced villainous authority with musical showmanship, establishing the character’s Broadway portrayal for future casts.

Tituss Burgess and Other Notable Stage Performers

Tituss Burgess played Ursula in the 2008 Broadway production, continuing the role after Kitt’s run. Burgess brought a distinctive comedic and vocal energy, highlighting the role’s demands for strong belt quality and comedic timing. Additional stage performers across international productions have contributed to a diverse lineage of Ursula portrayals, each emphasizing different aspects of the character.

• Eartha Kitt originated the role on Broadway in 2007.
• Tituss Burgess took over the role in 2008 on Broadway.
• Other notable stage productions featured performers such as Faith Prince and Loretta Ables Sayre in regional and touring companies.

Voice and On-Screen Performers in Other Media

Outside the 1989 film and stage, Ursula has been voiced by various performers in video games, television specials, and short-form media. In Disney’s Kingdom Hearts series, Pat Carroll’s original vocal performance is reused to maintain continuity. For live-action adaptations and related projects, casting has focused on performers who can combine vocal strength with physical characterization.

Vocal and Physical Requirements for Ursula

Ursula is a vocally demanding role requiring a wide range, power in belted passages, and precise control over comedic timing. Stage performers must also manage complex costumes and controlled movement to suggest underwater grace. Directors typically seek performers with strong music theatre backgrounds, robust vocal health, and experience in character-driven storytelling.

Legacy and Impact of Notable Performances

Pat Carroll’s film work established the vocal template for Ursula, while Eartha Kitt and Tituss Burgess shaped the role’s stage interpretation. Each performer influenced casting and direction for subsequent productions, balancing menace, musicality, and humor. These contributions have made Ursula a central figure in The Little Mermaid’s lasting popularity across media.

Conclusion

Who plays Ursula in The Little Mermaid depends on the medium: Pat Carroll in the 1989 animated film, Eartha Kitt and Tituss Burgess on Broadway, and other performers in stage and media adaptations. The role demands strong vocals, character depth, and comfort with villainous nuance. Understanding these distinctions helps audiences appreciate the craftsmanship behind each portrayal and clarifies common confusion between film and stage casts.