Ariel, the iconic mermaid princess, made her first appearance as the titular protagonist in Walt Disney Pictures' 1989 animated feature film The Little Mermaid, voiced by Jodi Benson. She is the seventh and youngest daughter of King Triton, ruler of the underwater kingdom of Atlantica, and the late Queen Athena. Living in a vibrant oceanic world, Ariel is distinguished by her long, flowing red hair, aqua-blue eyes, and green mermaid tail. From the outset, she exhibits a profound fascination with the human world, secretly collecting artifacts from shipwrecks in a hidden grotto, despite her father's strict prohibitions against contact with humans.

Ariel's personality is characterized by curiosity, rebelliousness, and determination. As a spirited teenager, she often defies authority, exploring dangerous areas and prioritizing her dreams over obligations, such as missing a royal concert. Her adventure intensifies when she rescues Prince Eric from a shipwreck and falls deeply in love with him, singing of her longing to join the human world in "Part of Your World." Desperate to pursue this love, she strikes a perilous deal with the sea witch Ursula, trading her voice for human legs in hopes of earning Eric's true love's kiss within three days, highlighting her impulsive yet passionate nature.

Through the film's events, Ariel undergoes significant development, learning the consequences of her actions while demonstrating bravery and resourcefulness. She navigates challenges on land without her voice, disrupts Ursula's schemes, and contributes to the villain's defeat alongside Eric and her father. Ultimately, King Triton recognizes her maturity and love, granting her permanent humanity. Ariel marries Eric, bridging the sea and land worlds. In subsequent media, including sequels and series, she evolves into a protective mother and wise figure, solidifying her legacy as a pioneering Disney Princess known for independence and self-discovery.