Disney’s live-action remake of Tangled is officially back in development, and the casting buzz is already electrifying Hollywood! After hitting pause in April 2025 following Snow White’s disappointing box office performance, the studio has resurrected this fairy tale adaptation with exciting news: Scarlett Johansson is being eyed for the role of Mother Gothel. Fans are ecstatic, praising the actress for her “perfect manipulative energy” that the villainous character demands. Let’s explore what’s happening with this long-awaited live-action adaptation and what fans expect from this magical reimagining.
Tangled Returns: The Project Resurrects After Brief Hiatus
The Tangled live-action remake resumes early development after Disney paused the project in April 2025. The pause came strategically after Disney’s Snow White live-action film underperformed at the box office. However, the studio’s confidence in the Tangled property got a significant boost following Lilo & Stitch live-action’s commercial success, which grossed over $1.03 billion worldwide. This blockbuster performance convinced Disney that audiences still crave quality fairy tale reimaginings, making Tangled’s resurrection timely and strategic.
Scarlett Johansson as Mother Gothel: Why Fans Are Thrilled
| Casting Aspect | Scarlett Johansson | Fan Sentiment |
|---|---|---|
| Manipulative Energy | Highly Skilled | Perfect Fit for Villain |
| Acting Range | Exceptional | Can Portray Complexity |
| Voice & Presence | Strong & Commanding | Justice to Character |
| Previous Roles | Avengers, Black Widow | Proven Blockbuster Experience |
Fans reacted enthusiastically to Scarlett Johansson’s casting speculation, with one fan highlighting her “perfect manipulative energy” that Mother Gothel demands. The Avengers actress brings proven villain expertise, demonstrated through complex antagonist portrayals. Her commanding presence and dramatic range align perfectly with the manipulative, controlling nature of Mother Gothel—the character who imprisoned Rapunzel and trapped her in psychological abuse.
Beyond Johansson enthusiasm, some fans expressed preference for actress Kathryn Hahn in the Mother Gothel role, creating friendly debate within the community. Both actresses possess the intensity and nuance required for Disney’s darkest live-action character.
Production Timeline & Creative Team
| Role | Person | Experience |
|---|---|---|
| Director | Michael Gracey | The Greatest Showman |
| Writer | Jennifer Kaytin Robinson | Thor: Love and Thunder |
| Status | Early Development | No Official Greenlight Yet |
Director Michael Gracey (The Greatest Showman) returns to helm the project from a script by Jennifer Kaytin Robinson, who also wrote Thor: Love and Thunder. This creative pairing suggests Disney prioritizes visually spectacular storytelling combined with character-driven narratives. While no formal greenlight has been announced, the return to active development signals Disney’s genuine commitment to bringing Rapunzel’s story to the big screen.
Rapunzel Casting: What’s Next?
Unlike Mother Gothel, Disney hasn’t announced who will play the titular character. Before the April pause, Florence Pugh was rumored for the Rapunzel role, while Avantika Vandanapu and Milo Manheim were discussed for lead roles. However, these discussions predate the project’s hiatus, and fresh casting considerations may emerge during this new development phase.
Corey Mylchreest previously auditioned for Flynn Rider but didn’t land the part, with Disney seeking someone with singing experience for the character. This detail emphasizes that Disney envisions the live-action Tangled as a musical-driven experience, potentially featuring musical numbers from the original animated film.
Fan Excitement & Cultural Moment
The original 2010 animated Tangled grossed approximately $600 million worldwide, establishing itself as a Disney classic beloved by generations. A live-action remake carries massive expectations—fans want authentic storytelling that honors the original’s magic while introducing fresh perspectives to new audiences.
Excited for Rapunzel’s live-action return? Keep watching for official casting announcements and production updates as 2026 progresses. For exclusive entertainment news, casting updates, and Disney project coverage, visit the official Disney website and Deadline’s entertainment news.
For comprehensive entertainment news, live-action remake coverage, and exclusive insights on upcoming Disney projects, explore TechnoSports’ entertainment and movies hub for breaking announcements, casting updates, and expert analysis on your favorite fairy tale reimaginings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Since the Tangled live-action is only in early development with no official greenlight, how likely is this project to actually get made, or could it face cancellation like other Disney live-action projects?
A: Early development status is actually encouraging—projects only return to development after proving creative viability. Disney’s decision to resurrect Tangled after the Snow White setback reflects genuine confidence, especially given Lilo & Stitch’s billion-dollar success. However, formal greenlight typically arrives after script completion and director confirmation solidify the creative vision. Early development averages 12-24 months before greenlight decisions. While some Disney projects face cancellation during development, Tangled’s established creative team (Gracey, Robinson) and celebrity casting interest suggest strong momentum toward production. Monitor 2026 for potential greenlight announcements.
Q2: Will the live-action Tangled include the musical numbers from the animated film (like “When Will My Life Begin” and “I’ve Got a Dream”), or will it adopt a purely dramatic narrative approach without songs?
A: Given Disney’s renewed emphasis on musical-driven live-action adaptations and screenwriter Jennifer Kaytin Robinson’s experience with character-rich storytelling, expect musical elements prominently featured. The Snow White disappointment partly stemmed from narrative concerns, not musical resistance. The casting specification for Flynn Rider—requiring singing experience—confirms Disney’s commitment to musical numbers. Expect Tangled live-action to blend dramatic storytelling with iconic songs reimagined for live-action audiences, similar to Cinderella and Beauty and the Beast’s successful musical approaches. This strategy honors the original while modernizing the experience for contemporary viewers.
