It turns out that Harry Styles was indeed close to portraying Prince Eric in the live-action remake of The Little Mermaid! Furthermore, the reports that he turned down the offer were also true!

The former One Direction member confirmed it and also explained why he chose to say no.

So what’s the reason for which Harry Styles broke fans’ hearts?

Without a doubt, many would have loved to see him being part of the iconic Disney story but he apparently refused the role and gave no explanation.

During an interview for The Face, Styles finally explained that ‘It was discussed (for the role). I want to put music out and focus on that for a while.’

There you have it! It turns out that the singer just wants to sing and doesn’t also have time for acting.

But even though he did not join the project, Harry had only great things to say about everybody involved: ‘Everyone involved in it was amazing, so I think it’s going to be great. I’ll enjoy watching it, I’m sure.’

This is also what a source previously shared with HollywoodLife.

At the time, the said insider dished that ‘Harry loves the whole team that’s being assembled. He thinks Halle’s incredibly talented and thinks she’s a brilliant choice for Ariel. He screen-tested with her and they clicked. Harry’s also a fan of Lin Manuel Miranda, he’s written new songs for the movie, so that’s another exciting element for Harry.’

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In the end, however, the source also stressed that he got involved in other projects so The Little Mermaid gig fell through.