Sebastian was supposed to be British. British!
Ariel's body type and personality in the 1989 movie were based on Alyssa Milano. (Milano was a child star on "Who's the Boss?" at the time.)
(all facts from Disney Wiki and IMDB.)
Source: pics.livejournal.com
Jodi Benson, the voice of Ariel, sang "Part of Your World" in the dark to get the underwater grotto feel.
In the opening scene when King Triton arrives at the arena, you can briefly see Mickey Mouse, Goofy, and Donald Duck in the crowd of sea-people.
Source: http://25.media.tumblr.com/tumblr_m5h3oa819v1qctc8lo1_500.jpg
Sebastian originally was supposed to have an English accent instead of a Jamaican one.
Source: images2.wikia.nocookie.net
