Disney’s live‑action version of Tangled is shaping up to be one of the studio’s most talked‑about projects of the year, with reports indicating that Kathryn Hahn is nearing an agreement to play Mother Gothel, the manipulative antagonist of the Rapunzel story. The casting is considered a strong fit by many observers, who point to Hahn’s ability to combine humor, menace, and emotional nuance in her past work.
The studio has already locked in its two leads, with Teagan Croft stepping into the role of Rapunzel and Milo Manheim cast as Flynn Rider, giving fresh faces to these beloved characters. Behind the camera, The Greatest Showman director Michael Gracey is at the helm, and Jennifer Kaytin Robinson is crafting the screenplay, guiding the project through its transition from animated favorite to live‑action musical adventure.
Mother Gothel, the figure who pretends to protect Rapunzel while secretly exploiting her magical hair, requires an actor who can balance sinister intentions with theatrical flair. That blend seems tailor‑made for Hahn, whose career has ranged from sharp comic turns to richly layered dramatic roles. Her tentative attachment has already excited fans online, many of whom see her as a natural successor to the original animated villain.
As Tangled continues its production buildup, Disney’s strategy of reimagining animated hits for a modern live‑action audience remains in full swing. The project reflects the studio’s confidence in its classic stories while inviting new interpretations that appeal to long‑time fans and newcomers alike.