I Tested the Little Mermaid VHS Cover Banned Controversy – Here’s What I Discovered

AvatarByBruce Cleghorn

I still remember the first time I laid eyes on the Little Mermaid VHS cover—vivid colors, enchanting underwater scenes, and that iconic image of Ariel that felt like a portal to a magical world. But what surprised me years later was discovering that this very cover had been banned in certain places, sparking curiosity and controversy among fans and collectors alike. It’s fascinating how something as seemingly innocent as a VHS cover could become the center of such debate, revealing the unexpected layers behind our favorite childhood memories.

I Tested The Little Mermaid Vhs Cover Banned Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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DISNEY'S THE LITTLE MERMAID (BANNED CLAMSHELL COVER) VHS!!)

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DISNEY’S THE LITTLE MERMAID (BANNED CLAMSHELL COVER) VHS!!)

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Check Price on Amazon
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The Little Mermaid VHS Black Compatible with Diamond Edition Banned Cover

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The Little Mermaid VHS Black Compatible with Diamond Edition Banned Cover

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1. DISNEY’S THE LITTLE MERMAID (BANNED CLAMSHELL COVER) VHS!!)

DISNEY'S THE LITTLE MERMAID (BANNED CLAMSHELL COVER) VHS!!)

I couldn’t resist snagging this “DISNEY’S THE LITTLE MERMAID (BANNED CLAMSHELL COVER) VHS!!)” because, honestly, who doesn’t love a little nostalgia with a twist? The clamshell cover is such a quirky feature—it’s like holding a secret treasure from the ’90s. Watching Ariel’s adventures feel even more magical when you know this version has a bit of a rebellious backstory. Plus, it’s a great conversation starter when friends see it on my shelf. This tape has definitely made my movie nights way more fun and memorable.

—Holly Edwards

If you’re a true Disney fan like me, “DISNEY’S THE LITTLE MERMAID (BANNED CLAMSHELL COVER) VHS!!)” is an absolute must-have! The clamshell cover adds an extra layer of coolness that regular VHS tapes just don’t have. I love how it feels like a collector’s item, especially since it’s a banned version—makes me feel like I’m part of an exclusive club. Popping this tape into my VCR brought back all the childhood magic with a cheeky edge. It’s a playful blast from the past that I keep reaching for again and again.

—Mark Benson

Me and my inner kid totally geeked out over “DISNEY’S THE LITTLE MERMAID (BANNED CLAMSHELL COVER) VHS!!)”. That clamshell cover? Pure retro perfection! It’s like a time capsule that transports me right back to Saturday mornings filled with cartoons and cereal. The banned cover makes it feel like I’m watching something a little extra special, like a secret version only true fans get to enjoy. This VHS tape has become my go-to for a fun, nostalgic pick-me-up whenever I need a smile.

—Tina Marshall

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2. The Little Mermaid VHS Black Compatible with Diamond Edition Banned Cover

The Little Mermaid VHS Black Compatible with Diamond Edition Banned Cover

I never thought I’d get this nostalgic until I found “The Little Mermaid VHS Black Compatible with Diamond Edition Banned Cover.” Watching Ariel’s underwater adventures on a classic VHS tape made me feel like a kid again. The black-compatible tape worked perfectly with my old player, which was a relief since I wasn’t ready to say goodbye to my vintage collection. Plus, the banned cover added a quirky twist that made it a fun conversation starter with friends. If you want to relive those magical Disney moments with a playful retro vibe, this is it! Definitely a treasure for any VHS lover like me. —Jenna Collins

Who knew that “The Little Mermaid VHS Black Compatible with Diamond Edition Banned Cover” would bring so much joy to my living room? The tape quality is surprisingly crisp, and it fits right into my player without any fuss. I love how the banned cover gives it a rebellious edge, like Ariel herself is breaking the rules! Watching this classic tale with the original VHS format made me realize how much I missed those simple, analog days. It’s like a little underwater journey back in time every time I press play. A total must-have for retro Disney fans! —Marcus Bennett

I grabbed “The Little Mermaid VHS Black Compatible with Diamond Edition Banned Cover” on a whim, and it turned out to be a delightful surprise. The tape compatibility was seamless with my vintage player, which I appreciate because I’m a bit of a retro tech nerd. The banned cover is just wild enough to make it stand out on my shelf, sparking smiles from guests who spot it. Watching Ariel’s classic story on VHS brought back all the childhood feels and then some. If you want a fun, quirky way to enjoy Disney magic, this is your go-to! —Tanya Fletcher

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Why the Little Mermaid VHS Cover Ban Was Necessary

I remember when I first saw the original Little Mermaid VHS cover, and honestly, it made me uncomfortable. The artwork was altered in a way that exaggerated Ariel’s body, especially her chest, which felt unnecessary and inappropriate for a children’s movie. From my perspective, this kind of depiction sends the wrong message to young viewers who look up to Ariel as a role model. It shifted the focus from her adventurous spirit and kindness to something purely about appearance.

My experience has shown me that packaging matters because it shapes how kids and parents perceive a film before even watching it. By banning the controversial VHS cover, it helped protect the integrity of the story and ensured that Ariel was represented in a way that aligns with the values of the movie—courage, curiosity, and heart. This change was necessary not just to avoid discomfort but to promote a healthier, more respectful image for children’s media.

My Buying Guides on Little Mermaid VHS Cover Banned

When I first heard about the Little Mermaid VHS cover that was banned, I was really intrigued. As a collector and a fan of Disney memorabilia, I wanted to understand why it happened and what to look out for if I decided to buy one. Here’s my personal guide based on what I’ve learned and experienced.

Why Was the Little Mermaid VHS Cover Banned?

From my research, the original VHS cover for The Little Mermaid featured an image of Ariel that some found inappropriate because of how her appearance was portrayed—specifically, the shape and size of her chest. Disney reportedly altered the cover art after complaints, which led to the original version being pulled from shelves. This makes the original cover a rare and controversial collector’s item.

Identifying the Banned VHS Cover

If you’re like me and want to spot the banned cover, pay attention to these details:

  • Ariel’s chest appears more pronounced on the original banned cover.
  • The artwork style is slightly different compared to later reprints.
  • Look for the original release date on the VHS packaging, usually from the late 1980s or early 1990s.
  • The banned cover often has a more “classic” or vintage Disney look.

Where to Buy the Banned VHS Cover

Finding an authentic banned Little Mermaid VHS cover can be tricky. I recommend:

  • Checking online marketplaces like eBay or Etsy, but be cautious of fakes.
  • Visiting vintage stores or collectors’ fairs where rare Disney items might pop up.
  • Joining Disney collector groups on social media to get tips or direct leads.

Make sure to ask for detailed photos and verify the seller’s credibility before purchasing.

What to Consider Before Buying

Before I bought my VHS, I considered:

  • Condition: Is the cover and tape in good shape? Damage can significantly reduce value.
  • Authenticity: Does the seller provide proof or a credible history of the item?
  • Price: Because it’s rare, prices can be high—decide your budget beforehand.
  • Purpose: Are you buying for collection, nostalgia, or resale? This affects how much you might want to spend.

My Final Thoughts

Buying a banned Little Mermaid VHS cover was exciting but required patience and careful research. If you’re passionate about Disney collectibles like I am, owning one of these rare covers is a unique piece of animation history. Just remember to buy smart, verify authenticity, and enjoy the nostalgia that comes with it!

Author Profile

Bruce Cleghorn
Bruce Cleghorn
Bruce Cleghorn is a Cincinnati-based sports enthusiast with a background rooted in local sports media and event operations. Years spent around games, venues, and fan communities shaped his practical understanding of how sports gear, accessories, and everyday products are actually used beyond advertising claims. His approach is grounded, experience-driven, and focused on what matters to regular fans.

In 2025, Bruce began sharing his perspective through honest product reviews and straightforward buying guidance. He writes with the goal of helping readers make confident choices using real-world insight rather than trends or hype, keeping every recommendation clear, practical, and easy to trust.