UPDATE: Harry Styles Turns Down Prince Eric Role in Live-Action THE LITTLE MERMAID

Despite the initial reports that pop star Harry Styles might be signing on to play Prince Eric in Disney's live-action remake of The Little Mermaid, a new report has debunked the rumor.

Sources close to the film have revealed that, despite being a fan of the project, the singer has "respectfully turned down" the role.

Earlier tweets from AMC Theaters and Regal Cinemas announcing Styles as the film's royal romantic lead have since been deleted.

As BroadwayWorld previously reported, Halle Bailey has been cast as Ariel in the studio's remake of their 1989 classic film. Melissa McCarthy, Jacob Tremblay, Javier Bardem and Awkwafina are also in talks to be part of the film.

Prince Eric is the human love interest for Ariel. After saving him from drowning, Ariel makes a deal with the sea witch Ursula to exchange her voice for legs in order for a chance to make Eric fall in love with her.

The remake of the classic Disney animated film will begin production early next year, and will be helmed by stage and screen director Rob Marshall. It will feature the original film score by composer Alan Menken, as well as new tunes co-written by Lin-Manuel Miranda. David Magee will pen the script for the film.

Styles, a former member of One Direction, left the band and proceeded to embark on a successful solo career. Styles made his acting debut with Christopher Nolan's Dunkirk, that grossed over $526 million worldwide. He recently tested for the lead in Baz Luhrmann's Elvis biopic, but the part ended up going to Austin Butler.

See the original news on AMC.