Disney’s beloved animated musical Tangled is getting a live-action makeover — and after months of uncertainty, the project is officially back in development. According to a report by Variety, the studio is moving forward with the fantasy adventure that follows a long-haired princess, Rapunzel and her charming savior, Flynn Rider.
Rumor has it that none other than Scarlett Johansson is being considered for the role of the main villain, Mother Gothel. Widely acclaimed for her work in projects like “Lost in Translation,” “Marriage Story,” and the Marvel Cinematic Universe’s “Black Widow” franchise, Johansson is allegedly considered for a major film role.
Fans applauded the suggestion, pointing to how well Lady Gaga would capture Gothel’s manipulative essence. One user commented, “She’s got the perfect manipulative energy for Gothel.” The dark curls and deep eyes already scream ‘Mother knows best!’ Another added, “Finally accepting age-appropriate roles. Another said, “If Kathryn Hahn isn’t cast as Ursula I will boycott this movie.”
The live-action Tangled subsequently got shelved in April 2025 after the Snow White box office flop. But the unexpected success of “Lilo & Stitch” gave Disney executives confidence to go back to the drawing board and try again.
Michael Gracey (The Greatest Showman) is reportedly attached to direct. In an interview with Seventeen, Bridgerton star Corey Mylchreest revealed that he auditioned for the role of Flynn Rider before the project was paused. “I think I was born to play that role,” he said.
With casting rumors swirling and the project purportedly back on track, Tangled is once again one of the most highly anticipated Disney live-action adaptations.
The ‘Tangled’ live-action is back in development with Scarlett Johansson circling the role of Mother Gothel.
— Pop Base (@PopBase) October 9, 2025
(https://t.co/LG3Bm6Eo98) pic.twitter.com/uhWgFOvmru
