Full Breakdown
Kathryn Hahn in Talks to Play Mother Gothel in Disney's Live-Action Tangled
1/10/2026, 8:18:22 AM
Casting Developments for Mother Gothel
Kathryn Hahn is reportedly in discussions with Disney to portray Mother Gothel in the upcoming live-action adaptation of the 2010 animated film *Tangled*. This follows the earlier announcement that Teagan Croft will play Rapunzel and Milo Manheim will portray Flynn Rider. Hahn's potential casting comes after Scarlett Johansson withdrew from consideration due to scheduling conflicts with her roles in *The Batman Part II* and *The Exorcist* reboot.
Background of the Project
The live-action *Tangled* project has had a tumultuous development history. Initially announced in 2020, it was put on indefinite hold in April 2025 following the disappointing performance of Disney's live-action *Snow White*. However, after the success of *Lilo & Stitch*, which grossed over $1 billion, Disney revived the project in October 2025. Michael Gracey, known for directing *The Greatest Showman*, is set to helm the film, with a script by Jennifer Kaytin Robinson.
Character Overview
Mother Gothel, the film's antagonist, is characterized as a manipulative figure who exploits Rapunzel's magical hair to maintain her youth. The original animated film, which grossed nearly $600 million worldwide, featured Donna Murphy as the voice of Gothel. Hahn's casting has been met with enthusiasm from fans, many of whom have long advocated for her to take on the role, citing her performances in *WandaVision* and *Agatha All Along* as evidence of her suitability for the character.
Fan Reactions and Industry Insights
The response to Hahn's potential casting has been overwhelmingly positive, with fans celebrating on social media platforms. Many believe that her ability to balance charm and menace makes her an ideal fit for the role. Comments from fans highlight her previous performances, suggesting that her portrayal could bring depth to Gothel's complex character. Industry observers note that Hahn's casting could align with Disney's recent trend of considering fan opinions in their casting decisions.
Official Statements & Responses
While Disney has not yet confirmed Hahn's casting, reports indicate that negotiations are ongoing. The studio's silence has not dampened speculation, as many view Hahn's involvement as a significant step forward for the project. The anticipation surrounding the film continues to grow, especially with the confirmed casting of Croft and Manheim.
What's Next for the Live-Action Tangled
Production for *Tangled* is expected to begin in June 2026, with no official release date announced yet. As the project progresses, further updates on casting and production details are anticipated. The film aims to capture the essence of the beloved animated classic while introducing new elements that resonate with contemporary audiences.
Verbatim Quotes
- “KATHRYN HAHN AS MOTHER GOTHEL?!!!! OMAYGHAAAAAD.” — Fan Reaction
- “I need to make a gif of this to show the doubters EXACTLY why Kathryn Hahn is perfect for the role of Mother Gothel because the switch from normal to absolutely sinister in this scene was insane.” — Fan Reaction
- “Going from Agatha to another witch character feels like a bit of a typecast, but Hahn is just so good it’s hard to resist, and I’m sure she would absolutely devour this role.” — Industry Commentator
The live-action *Tangled* adaptation is shaping up to be a highly anticipated project, with Kathryn Hahn potentially stepping into a role that has captivated fans for years.
