In 1989, Daveed Diggs watched “The Little Mermaid” as a child and fell in love with the character Sebastian. Now, as a successful actor, rapper, and filmmaker, he has been chosen to play Sebastian in the live-action adaptation of the film. At first, Diggs was hesitant and doubted his ability to live up to the iconic performance of Samuel E. Wright, who voiced Sebastian in the original animated movie. However, after auditions and workshops, he embraced the role and worked on developing his own unique version of the character.
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Diggs carefully crafted Sebastian’s accent, drawing inspiration from Wright’s Jamaican-accented baritone while adding a Trinidadian influence. He wanted his portrayal to pay homage to the beloved Sebastian that everyone knows while showcasing his own vocal abilities. Through collaboration with coaches, he found a voice that felt authentic to the character.
Despite his initial doubts, Diggs is excited to take on the role and contribute to Sebastian’s legacy. He acknowledges the challenge of living up to the expectations set by the animated classic and wonders how his portrayal will be received by audiences, particularly children.
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During a Zoom conversation before the film’s premiere, Diggs discussed his dedication to creating the character. He appeared in a striking deep-red suit with a fishbone brooch, demonstrating his attention to detail. He expressed gratitude for the opportunity and reflected on his journey from being a fan of “The Little Mermaid” as a child to now portraying one of its beloved characters.
Diggs’ portrayal of Sebastian in the live-action adaptation of “The Little Mermaid” is a testament to his talent and ability to put his unique imprint on iconic roles. Despite his insecurities, he overcame them and embraced the opportunity to bring the beloved character to life in his own way. With his deliberate approach to developing the character’s accent and his dedication to honoring the original performance while adding his own flair, Diggs hopes to create a memorable portrayal that resonates with audiences.
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