Tangled Returns: Disney Revives Live-Action Project with Scarlett Johansson in Talks for Gothel

Disney is once again weaving magic around one of its most beloved animated tales — Tangled. After a period of uncertainty and creative pause, the studio is reportedly moving forward with the long-awaited live-action adaptation of the 2010 classic, and this time, a Hollywood powerhouse could join the cast: Scarlett Johansson is being considered for the role of Mother Gothel.

The original story follows Rapunzel, a princess with magical, golden hair that possesses healing powers. Locked away in a secluded tower by Mother Gothel — a woman obsessed with eternal youth — Rapunzel grows up unaware of her true royal identity or the outside world that awaits her. Gothel’s manipulation and possessiveness make her one of Disney’s most psychologically complex villains, and Johansson’s potential casting could bring new depth to this character — combining elegance, menace, and emotional intensity.

Michael Gracey, known for his visually rich work on The Greatest Showman, is expected to direct, while Jennifer Kaytin Robinson — acclaimed for her ability to balance humor and female empowerment in storytelling — is reportedly penning the script. Together, they aim to craft a version that honors the heart of the animated film while infusing it with modern themes and visual realism.

The project’s revival follows Disney’s reassessment of its live-action strategy after mixed reactions to other remakes. The underwhelming performance of Snow White led to a cautious restructuring, with the studio now prioritizing stories that combine nostalgic value with renewed creative vision. Tangled appears to fit that formula perfectly — a tale still adored by audiences worldwide, rich with adventure, romance, and emotional resonance.

If Johansson officially joins the cast, her star power could elevate the film’s appeal, especially as Disney seeks to balance its traditional audience with newer generations craving more nuanced storytelling. Her portrayal of Gothel could explore the villain’s fragile humanity — a woman battling the fear of aging and irrelevance — rather than a purely cartoonish antagonist.

Casting for Rapunzel and Flynn Rider remains under wraps, though speculation continues online. What’s clear, however, is that Disney intends for Tangled to mark a new chapter in its evolving approach to fairytale adaptations — one that merges technological excellence, strong performances, and layered emotional narratives.

For fans of the original, expectations are high: the humor, the charm, and the unforgettable songs will need to find their place in a more realistic setting, without losing the spirit that made Tangled a modern classic.

As Disney reawakens this tower-bound story, Tangled’s live-action journey promises to test how far nostalgia, artistry, and reinvention can intertwine. If all goes well, audiences may soon find themselves once again enchanted — watching Rapunzel’s lanterns rise into a night sky filled with new possibilities.