Disney stories hold a special place in the hearts of fans worldwide. While movies serve as the foundation of Disney’s storytelling universe, these tales have expanded into books, TV shows, video games, comics, and more.
One of Disney’s greatest strengths is its villains—characters who are just as beloved as the heroes. And what if we told you that one of the most iconic Disney villains of all time has roots in Shreveport, Louisiana?
Meet Pat Carroll, the legendary voice behind Ursula the Sea Witch from The Little Mermaid, whose journey began in Shreveport before she became a Hollywood legend.
Pat Carroll’s Early Life in Shreveport
Pat Carroll was born on May 5, 1927, in Shreveport, Louisiana. Interestingly, she was born just days before a devastating tornado struck the city, an eerie foreshadowing of the powerful presence she would later bring to the screen.
Her family called Shreveport home for five years before moving west to Los Angeles, California. It was in LA that young Pat developed a passion for entertainment, quickly finding her way into local theater productions—a glimpse of the remarkable career ahead.
Even after serving in the U.S. Army, Carroll’s love for performing never wavered. She pursued acting with relentless determination, and soon, Hollywood took notice.
Pat Carroll’s Rise in Hollywood
Carroll made her film debut in 1947 as Lorelei in Hometown Girl. But it was television that made her a household name.
She appeared in hit TV shows like:
- The Red Buttons Show
- The Carol Burnett Show
- Caesar’s Hour (which won her a Primetime Emmy Award)
Her talents weren’t limited to comedy. Carroll was a versatile performer, earning a Grammy Award for spoken word, a Drama Desk Award, and even a Tony nomination for her Broadway debut in Catch a Star! (1955).
She continued to shine on stage, taking on roles in classic plays like Romeo and Juliet and The Merry Wives of Windsor, captivating audiences for nearly six decades.
The Role That Made Pat Carroll a Disney Legend
In 1989, Pat Carroll secured the role that would define her legacy—Ursula the Sea Witch in The Little Mermaid.
Her performance was instantly iconic, with critics like Roger Ebert praising Ursula as Disney’s most compelling villainess in decades. Carroll’s deep, mischievous laugh and commanding voice made Ursula an unforgettable Disney villain.
Her connection to the role lasted for over 40 years, as she continued voicing Ursula in:
- TV shows
- Video games (Kingdom Hearts)
- Theme park attractions
Her work ensured that Ursula’s presence endured across generations.
Pat Carroll’s Legacy Lives On
Sadly, Pat Carroll passed away on July 30, 2022, at the age of 95.
However, her impact on Disney, animation, and pop culture remains timeless. Her voice will continue to bring Ursula to life for generations to come, proving that great stories and performances never fade.
So, the next time you watch The Little Mermaid, remember—there’s a little bit of Shreveport magic in that story.