When you think of Disney villains, a few names immediately come to mind — Maleficent, Scar, and of course, Ursula. But what if there’s more to the sea witch than meets the eye? Ursula Kodjoe might not be a household name for most, but if you're curious about this mysterious character from Disney's *The Little Mermaid*, you're not alone. From her origins in the 1989 animated classic to her role as a symbol of manipulation and power, Ursula has captivated audiences for decades. Whether you're a Disney fan, a lover of animated storytelling, or just curious about one of the most iconic villains in film history, this post dives into what makes Ursula so unforgettable.

Ursula’s presence in the *Little Mermaid* universe is larger than life — literally. With her deep voice, octopus-like appearance, and flair for the dramatic, she’s a villain who knows how to leave an impression. But beyond the theatrics lies a character with depth, ambition, and a backstory that raises questions about power, exile, and justice. This post will walk you through everything you need to know about Ursula, including her role in the franchise, her cultural impact, and how she fits into the larger Disney universe.

Whether you're rewatching *The Little Mermaid* for the hundredth time or discovering Ursula for the first time, there's always something new to learn about this unforgettable sea witch. Let’s take a closer look at her journey and why she continues to be such a fascinating figure in popular culture.

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Table of Contents

• Ursula Kodjoe: A Biography
• Ursula Character Profile
• Why Ursula Kodjoe Matters
• Ursula in the Disney Universe
• Frequently Asked Questions

Ursula Kodjoe: A Biography

Ursula Kodjoe is not a real person — she's a fictional character created by Disney. However, the confusion sometimes arises because Ursula is such a strong personality that people wonder if she’s based on a real-life figure. In the world of *The Little Mermaid*, Ursula is a cecaelian sea witch who lives in an underwater lair and makes deals with desperate merfolk. Her most famous deal is with Ariel, the young mermaid princess who dreams of becoming human.

Ursula is the sister of King Triton, ruler of the sea, but she was exiled from his kingdom. This backstory adds layers to her character — she's not just a villain for the sake of being evil; she has a legitimate grudge. Her motivations are complex, and that’s part of what makes her so compelling.

While some may confuse Ursula with real people like Ursula Hempstead, MD, or Ursula Mrazek Vann — both of whom are actual individuals with the name Ursula — the term “Ursula Kodjoe” typically refers to the animated Disney character. So, if you're searching for Ursula Kodjoe, you're probably diving into the world of Disney lore.

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Ursula at a Glance

Ursula Character Profile

Ursula’s role in *The Little Mermaid* is central to the plot. She offers Ariel a temporary chance at humanity in exchange for her voice, setting off a chain of events that drives the entire story. But Ursula’s character isn’t just about making a single deal — she thrives on exploiting others’ weaknesses and desires. Her contracts are cleverly designed to benefit her while leaving the merfolk in a worse position than before.

She’s often seen surrounded by the voices of those she’s trapped, stored in shimmering shells. This visual motif is haunting and memorable — it shows the cost of making a deal with the sea witch. Ursula’s personality is larger than life, and her voice, provided by Pat Carroll, is unforgettable. She has a deep, sultry tone that adds to her allure and menace.

Interestingly, Ursula has appeared in different forms throughout the franchise. While she’s usually depicted as a cecaelian with octopus-like legs, she once took on the form of a mermaid herself. And in her human disguise, she becomes Vanessa — a clever twist that shows her versatility as a character.

Why Ursula Kodjoe Matters

Ursula has become one of Disney’s most iconic villains, and for good reason. She’s not just a one-dimensional baddie — she has depth, ambition, and a complex backstory that adds nuance to her role. She represents the idea of power unchecked by morality, and her presence in *The Little Mermaid* helped spark a new era of Disney animation.

The 1989 film marked the beginning of Disney’s Renaissance, a period of creative resurgence that brought us classics like *Beauty and the Beast* and *Aladdin*. Ursula’s role in that revival cannot be overstated. Her design, voice, and presence were so striking that she became a cultural touchstone in her own right.

Even after her passing in 2023 — which marked Disney’s 100th anniversary — Ursula’s legacy lives on. She’s a favorite among fans, cosplayers, and critics alike. Her impact goes beyond the screen, influencing fashion, music, and even LGBTQ+ culture, as she’s often seen as a symbol of queer iconography in media.

Ursula in the Disney Universe

Ursula isn’t just a one-film wonder. She appears in multiple *Little Mermaid*-related media, including TV shows, video games, and theme park attractions. Her role as a villain has been explored in greater depth in these expanded stories, giving fans a chance to see different facets of her character.

In some versions of the story, she’s shown to be a former advisor to King Triton before being exiled. This adds a layer of betrayal and motivation to her actions. It also makes her a more sympathetic — if still dangerous — character. Her desire for power is understandable, even if her methods are questionable.

Ursula has also been compared to other Disney villains, often being placed alongside the likes of Maleficent and Scar. But what sets her apart is her theatricality and the way she plays with words and emotions. She’s not just a threat — she’s a manipulator who knows how to get what she wants.

• Appears in over a dozen Disney-related media beyond the original film
• Has a strong fan following in cosplay and fan art communities
• Considered a key figure in Disney’s LGBTQ+ representation

Frequently Asked Questions

Who voiced Ursula in *The Little Mermaid*?

Ursula was voiced by Pat Carroll, a talented actress who brought the character to life with a deep, sultry voice that became instantly recognizable. Pat Carroll passed away in 2023 at the age of 95, but her performance as Ursula remains iconic.

Is Ursula King Triton’s sister?

Yes, Ursula is King Triton’s exiled sister. This backstory adds depth to her character and explains her motivations for wanting power and control over the sea. Learn more about Disney’s character development in our other articles.

What kind of creature is Ursula?

Ursula is a cecaelian — a mythical creature that combines features of a human and an octopus. She’s often depicted with tentacles and a dramatic, flowing form that makes her stand out visually in the film. You can read more about her species here.

How did Ursula become a Disney villain?

Ursula was designed to be a powerful antagonist who could challenge Ariel’s journey to the surface world. Her design was influenced by drag queen culture and theatrical performances, which gave her a unique flair among Disney villains.

What is Ursula’s role in the sequel and other media?

In the sequel, *The Little Mermaid II: Return to the Sea*, Ursula’s presence is still felt even after her defeat. Her sister, Morgana, takes on a similar role, continuing the legacy of the sea witch in the *Little Mermaid* universe.