For fans of the beloved Disney character, determining exactly what episodes Ariel is in Once Upon a Time is a common quest. The Little Mermaid made a memorable splash in the series, but her appearances are specific and largely concentrated in the early seasons. Understanding the trajectory of her story helps clarify where to look for her poignant and action-packed moments.
The Main Appearances of Ariel
Princess Ariel primarily appears in the first season of Once Upon a Time, with her storyline beginning in the episode titled "The Shepherd." This initial introduction establishes her curious nature and desire to explore the world beyond the sea. Her presence is woven directly into the main narrative of Storybrooke, rather than being a peripheral guest character, meaning her actions have lasting consequences for the core group. Viewers can expect a focused arc that drives the central plot forward during this early stage of the series.
Season 1 Key Episodes
The majority of Ariel's significant screen time is packed into the first dozen episodes of Season 1. The narrative uses this compact window to develop her relationship with Prince Eric and her interactions with the main ensemble. These episodes are crucial for understanding the magical curse's reach, as it extends to the ocean's depths, pulling mermaids onto the shore. The following list details the specific episodes where she is a primary or major supporting character:
- "The Shepherd" (Season 1, Episode 3)
- "The Dreamy" (Season 1, Episode 14)
- "Ariel" (Season 2, Episode 5)
- "A Tale of Two Sisters" (Season 4, Episode 1)
- "Heroes and Villains" (Season 4, Episode 12)
- "Dark Waters" (Season 6, Episode 4)
Following the Journey to Storybrooke
While Ariel physically appears in the list above, her influence often lingers beyond her visible form. "The Dreamy" is particularly pivotal, as it delves into her past with the Sea Goddess Ursula and provides essential backstory for her character. This episode is a fan favorite for deepening the mythology of the ocean realm. Her transition to the Land Without Magic and integration into the Storybrooke community is a significant event that connects the fairytale world with the modern-day setting of the show.
The Flashback and Return
After her initial Season 1 arc, Ariel utilizes a magical sand dollar to maintain a connection to the Enchanted Forest. This allows the producers to bring her back in Season 2, specifically in the episode titled "Ariel." In this installment, she serves as a guide for Belle, helping her locate the Rumplestiltskin and facilitating a critical exchange of knowledge. This appearance solidifies her role as a key helper to the main characters, even when she is not physically present in the town.
Her subsequent return in Season 4 during "A Tale of Two Sisters" marks a significant moment, as she interacts with a much older Henry and Regina. This demonstrates the long-term impact of the curse across different timelines. Furthermore, her involvement in "Heroes and Villains" showcases her combat skills and loyalty to the heroes during the intense conflict. Later, in Season 6's "Dark Waters," she reappears once more, proving that her allegiance to the core group remains a constant despite the shifting tides of fate.
Navigating the Non-Canon Content
It is important to distinguish the main series episodes from the supplemental materials. Ariel does not have a prominent role in the Once Upon a Time spin-off series, Once Upon a Time in Wonderland. Additionally, the numerous novels and comic book series that followed the show often explored side stories, but the core canon Ariel narrative is locked within the main television series listed above. For the definitive experience of her journey, focusing on the main series episodes ensures you capture her complete story arc.
