Scarlett Johansson Set to Shine in Upcoming Tangled Live-Action Movie Development

Disney is back in action as it continues the development of a live-action adaptation of the beloved animated film, Tangled. This anticipated project will have Michael Gracey, known for his work on The Greatest Showman, at the helm as director, working from a script penned by Jennifer Kaytin Robinson.
Scarlett Johansson to Star
Scarlett Johansson is being considered for the role of Mother Gothel. The iconic character was originally voiced by Tony Award-winning actress Donna Murphy in the 2010 animated version of Tangled.
Production Details
- Producers: Kristin Burr of Burr! Productions
- Additional Producers: Emmy-winning Lucy Kitada, known for The Baby-Sitters Club
Background and Box Office
The original Tangled, based on the Brothers Grimm fairy tale of Rapunzel, became a significant success. It grossed over $590 million globally and was nominated for an Oscar in the Best Song category for “I See the Light.”
Challenges and Successes
Earlier this year, The Hollywood Reporter noted that the live-action Tangled faced a production pause. This followed the underperformance of Snow White, starring Rachel Zegler and Gal Gadot, at the box office.
Disney enjoyed a triumphant return with the remake of Lilo & Stitch, while Mufasa: The Lion King, directed by Barry Jenkins, also saw great success when it debuted last year.
Upcoming Releases
Looking ahead, director Thomas Kail is working on a live-action version of Moana. This film will star Catherine Laga’aia and Dwayne Johnson and is slated for a July 10, 2026 release. The original animated film debuted in 2016, followed by a theatrical sequel last year.