Well, well, well. Who knew Ariel was a prude? Apparently, if you press the button on the talking Ariel fast enough, the toy cycles through such saccharine phrases as “Life is the bubbles” quickly enough that a secret message is revealed. “You’re a slut!”

From ABC NEWS: The “Little Mermaid Shimmering Lights Ariel doll may say something else — “You’re a slut,” according to a California mother whose allegation came to light in a newspaper report.”
Apparently the message is so clear that the woman’s 3-year-old child started repeating it “I was in absolute shock,” said Herrera, “especially after my daughter repeated it.”

Mattel has asked Herrera to return the doll, and the company has offered her a voucher for a toy of equal value.

There’s video of the doll. We couldn’t hear it, but, you know, listen for yourself. There are no plans to recall little Ariel.—MEGHANN MARCO

Mom: Talking Doll Called My Daughter ‘a Slut’ [ABC NEWS via Table of Malcontents]