Disney Developing Live-Action Mermaid Series Saltwater: Everything We Know So Far
Disney may not be moving forward with a live-action sequel to The Little Mermaid just yet, but the studio is far from finished telling magical stories beneath the waves. A new live-action television project titled Saltwater is currently in development, bringing an original coming-of-age mermaid story to audiences.
While the project is still in its early stages, Saltwater has already generated excitement thanks to its talented creative team, compelling storyline, and a cast of teenage characters that could soon become Disney’s next breakout stars.
Here’s everything we know about Saltwater so far.
What Is Saltwater About?
According to early development details, Saltwater follows Coral, a thoughtful 15-year-old girl who has spent most of her life living with her father in Arizona.
Everything changes when Coral spends the summer with her mother in a picturesque seaside town. There, she discovers an incredible family secret—she is half mermaid.
As Coral begins embracing her magical heritage, she must also navigate the challenges of teenage life, including friendships, romance, social pressures, and discovering where she truly belongs. The series combines fantasy with relatable coming-of-age themes, making it a natural fit for Disney’s family audience.
Meet the Main Characters in Saltwater
Disney’s pilot introduces several key teenage characters who play important roles in Coral’s journey.
Coral
Coral is described as a thoughtful dreamer with a creative spirit, genuine kindness, and an easy sense of humor. Although she finds herself in an extraordinary magical world, she’s designed to feel relatable as she learns to balance everyday teenage struggles with her newfound mermaid identity.
Mia
Mia quickly becomes Coral’s closest friend after the two meet at a Florida beach club where Mia’s mother works.
She’s witty, independent, scientifically curious, and unapologetically herself. While she doesn’t seem interested in popularity, her confidence and imagination make her an important influence on Coral.
Vega
Vega serves as the best friend to another student named Paige and understands the social dynamics of the beach community better than anyone.
Calm and observant on the surface, Vega may secretly struggle with ambition and jealousy as she helps reinforce Paige’s influence among their peers.
August
August is the laid-back surfer who immediately catches Coral’s attention.
Friendly, emotionally mature, and naturally athletic, August spends his summers at the beach club with a close-knit group of local teens. As Coral and August grow closer, their relationship faces complications thanks to Paige’s long-standing interest in him.
Who Is Behind Saltwater?
The project is being developed by Disney Branded Television, with only the pilot episode currently in production.
The creative team includes:
- Director: Elizabeth Allen Rosenbaum (Sneakerella, Aquamarine)
- Writer: Sarah Watson (Percy Jackson and the Olympians)
Rosenbaum’s previous experience directing the beloved teen mermaid film Aquamarine makes her a fitting choice to helm another coming-of-age story centered around life beneath the sea.
Who Are the Casting Directors for Saltwater?
One of the casting teams attached to Saltwater is TW Cast & Recruit, a respected casting company known for working on a variety of film and television productions. Their involvement indicates that Disney is building an experienced casting team to help bring the series’ young ensemble to life.
Casting directors are responsible for finding the right actors for each role, coordinating auditions, reviewing submissions, conducting callbacks, and working closely with producers and directors throughout the casting process. They play a vital role in shaping a project’s on-screen performances and ensuring each character is portrayed by the best possible talent.
With Saltwater centered around teenage characters like Coral, Mia, Vega, August, and other beach club locals, TW Cast & Recruit is expected to help identify emerging actors who can capture the emotional depth, humor, and chemistry required for the series. Should the pilot receive a full series order, additional casting opportunities are likely to become available as production expands.
Is Saltwater Connected to The Little Mermaid?
Despite Disney’s continued interest in mermaid stories, Saltwater is not believed to be connected to The Little Mermaid franchise.
Instead, the series appears to be an entirely original property featuring its own mythology, characters, and setting. The story leans more toward a modern teen drama with fantasy elements than a traditional fairy tale adaptation.
Production and Filming Updates
Production on the Saltwater pilot is expected to begin in August.
At this stage, Disney is only producing the pilot episode. As with many television projects, the completed pilot will be evaluated before the studio decides whether to move forward with a full series order.
If approved, Saltwater could become one of Disney’s newest original television series, opening the door for expanded casting and production opportunities.
Will Saltwater Stream on Disney+?
Although Disney has not officially announced a distribution plan, industry expectations suggest that Saltwater could become a Disney+ exclusive if it receives a full series order.
Disney Branded Television continues to expand its slate of original programming for younger audiences and families, making Disney+ the most likely streaming home for the series.
Disney TV Pilot “Saltwater” Casting Call for Coral Stand-In
Stand-In Actress for TV Pilot “Saltwater”
Job Description
A paid casting call is seeking a stand-in actress for the TV pilot Saltwater, filming in Wilmington, Kure Beach, and Southport, North Carolina. This recurring opportunity is for a performer who closely matches the featured actor’s physical appearance and may also be selected to serve as a photo double when needed. Applicants should have open availability throughout the pilot’s production schedule.
Job Responsibilities
- Work as a recurring stand-in during production.
- Serve as a photo double when needed.
- Match the actor’s positioning, lighting, and camera blocking for crew setup.
- Follow direction from the assistant director and camera department.
- Maintain professionalism and consistency throughout filming.
Requirements
- Female.
- Caucasian.
- Fair complexion.
- Ages 13–20.
- Height: 5’4″–5’6″.
- Strawberry blonde hair.
- Must have open availability for production in Wilmington, Kure Beach, and Southport, North Carolina.
Compensation
- Guaranteed $120 for up to 8 hours.
- Time-and-a-half pay for hours worked beyond 8 hours.
- Minors may work up to 9 hours with a daily rate of approximately $142.50.
- Opportunity for recurring work throughout the TV pilot.
What This Means for Actors
The pilot reportedly includes several principal teenage roles, with casting focused on performers between the ages of 14 and 18 for the lead characters.
If Disney officially orders the series, additional opportunities could become available for recurring roles, guest stars, stand-ins, doubles, and background actors. Young performers interested in Disney productions should keep an eye on future Saltwater casting calls as the project continues through development.
Final Thoughts
Although Saltwater is still in the pilot stage, the project already has the ingredients of a promising Disney original. An experienced creative team, an engaging coming-of-age storyline, and an entirely new mermaid mythology position the series as one to watch.
If the pilot earns a full series order, Saltwater could become Disney’s next breakout fantasy drama for young audiences while creating exciting opportunities for aspiring actors looking to break into the entertainment industry.
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