Disney has resumed development of its live-action Tangled remake, with Scarlett Johansson reportedly being considered for the role of Mother Gothel.
After months of uncertainty, the studio has restarted work on the highly anticipated project. The film will revisit Disney’s beloved 2010 animated movie, which brought the story of Rapunzel to a new generation.
Deadline confirmed that the project is “resuming early development.” However, Disney has not yet announced a director or finalised the script.
The remake remains in its early stages. Casting and other creative decisions are still taking shape.
Johansson eyed for Mother Gothel
The potential casting of Johansson has quickly become one of the biggest talking points surrounding the project.
According to Deadline, the actress is being considered as a frontrunner for Mother Gothel. The character kidnaps Rapunzel and keeps her hidden in a tower to preserve her youth and power.
Johansson could bring considerable star power to the role. She has also shown her range across action, drama and comedy.
Audiences know her best as Black Widow in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. However, she has also earned critical acclaim for films such as Marriage Story and Her.
If Disney officially casts Johansson, Mother Gothel could become one of the most intriguing parts of the Tangled remake.
Sadie Sink, McKenna Grace among frontrunners for Rapunzel
Disney has also started looking for its live-action Rapunzel. Several young actresses have reportedly entered the conversation for the lead role.
As reported by GeekTyrant, Sadie Sink, McKenna Grace, Emma Myers and Isabel May are among the names being considered.
Sink has become widely known for playing Max Mayfield in Stranger Things. She also began her career on Broadway, including a role as Annie.
Her experience with emotionally demanding characters could make her a strong choice for Rapunzel. The role would require acting ability, singing skills and plenty of emotional range.
Still, Disney has not confirmed any casting decisions. Fans will therefore have to wait for official announcements before knowing who will play the long-haired princess.
A strategic move in Disney’s live-action era
The Tangled remake fits into Disney’s wider strategy of adapting its animated classics for live-action audiences.
The studio has already turned several animated favourites into successful live-action or photorealistic releases. These include The Lion King, Beauty and the Beast, Aladdin and The Little Mermaid.
The strategy has attracted both excitement and criticism. Nevertheless, the continued interest in these projects shows that audiences remain curious about new versions of familiar stories.
The original Tangled became a major commercial and critical success. It earned approximately $592.5 million worldwide and received an Oscar nomination for its song “I See the Light”.
That success gives the live-action remake a high bar to clear. Disney will need to balance nostalgia with a fresh approach to the story, visuals and music.
What’s next for ‘Tangled’ in live action?
Disney still has several major decisions to make before production can move forward.
The studio has yet to announce a director, complete the cast or reveal a production schedule. A release date also remains unconfirmed.
More details could emerge as development continues. For now, fans can only speculate about Johansson as Mother Gothel and the actresses who could eventually play Rapunzel.
The Tangled remake remains a work in progress, but the return to development has already renewed interest in Disney’s next live-action adaptation.
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