Ariel's dad is King Triton.
As the sovereign ruler of the vast underwater kingdom of Atlantica, King Triton is depicted as a powerful and authoritative figure. While he is consistently referred to as a "King" and "ruler," his dominion over the entire ocean realm, his immense powers, and his direct control over the merfolk position him as a deity-like entity within The Little Mermaid universe, much like ancient mythological gods of the sea such as Poseidon or Neptune.
King Triton's Role and Characteristics
King Triton is central to the narrative of The Little Mermaid, governing Atlantica with a strong hand and deep concern for his kingdom and family.
- Ruler of Atlantica: He commands the ocean, overseeing all its inhabitants and maintaining order within his realm. This role signifies a status equivalent to a god in many mythologies.
- Appearance: He is known for his regal and distinctive appearance, typically portrayed with white hair, a white beard, and a white mustache. In the prologue of the prequel film, he is shown with auburn brown hair.
- Family Man: Despite his powerful position, King Triton is also defined by his family relationships:
- He is the widower of Queen Athena.
- He is the father of Ariel and her six sisters.
- He is the grandfather of Melody.
His leadership and the reverence he receives from his subjects underscore his god-like stature as the ultimate authority in the sea.
Key Family Members of King Triton
| Relationship | Name | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Daughter | Ariel | The youngest daughter of King Triton and the main protagonist. |
| Wife | Queen Athena | King Triton's deceased wife and the mother of his seven daughters. |
| Granddaughter | Melody | Ariel's daughter and King Triton's granddaughter. |
| Other Daughters | Attina, Alana, Adella, Aquata, Arista, Andrina | Ariel's six older sisters. |
