In the new 2023 live-action adaptation of The Little Mermaid, Ursula is portrayed by Melissa McCarthy. In this version, Ursula is a treacherous and conniving sea witch who is King Triton's estranged sister and Ariel's aunt. She makes a deal with Ariel to give her human legs in exchange for Ariel's voice, with the hidden agenda of sabotaging Ariel and seizing control of Atlantica. Ursula also has a human alter ego named Vanessa, played by Jessica Alexander, whom she uses to trick Prince Eric to get engaged to him and thwart Ariel's chances.
Melissa McCarthy described Ursula as a complex character with wit, manipulation, and underlying mental health struggles due to isolation and family rejection. The film expands Ursula’s role as a prominent villain compared to the original animated version, exploring more of her motivations and personality.