Disney and fairy tales have a symbiotic relationship. Now, the hugely popular traditional European fairy tale of Rapunzel is set to get its own live-action adaptation after its animated version performed strongly at the box office. As per the latest developments, Emmy-nominated actress Kathryn Hahn has been roped in to feature in Disney’s Tangled.
Kathryn Hahn seemingly confirms her Disney role on Instagram
The Tiny Beautiful Things actress has confirmed that she will be joining the cast for the live-action retelling of the Brothers Grimm Rapunzel fairy tale. She will be playing the main villain, Mother Gothel, in Tangled. The character keeps Rapunzel in a secluded tower so that she can make use of her magical, long blonde hair, which possesses healing and youth-restoring powers.
Kathryn Hahn took to Instagram to hint at her involvement in the new Disney role. She posted a video saying that she had just discovered what OOTD (Outfit Of The Day) meant and then proceeded to show a T-shirt printed with several images of the animated Mother Gothel. Earlier this year, media reports noted that Hahn was in negotiations for the role. Now, the Instagram video might not just be a coincidence and could be a move by the marketing team to start building intrigue around the film.
Reportedly, by late 2025, development of the film resumed after initial hiccups, including a pause to reassess Disney’s live-action remake strategy, which had begun in 2024. Notably, the role of Mother Gothel was reportedly first offered to Scarlett Johansson, but she had to back out due to scheduling conflicts.
Disney has also reportedly confirmed that Teagan Croft will play Rapunzel, while Milo Manheim will portray Flynn Rider, the charming and witty thief who eventually becomes her love interest.
Michael Gracey will direct the live-action Tangled from a script by Jennifer Kaytin Robinson, with Kristin Burr producing. The 2010 animated film, directed by Nathan Greno and Byron Howard, made ripples at the box office, grossing over $590 million worldwide and earning an Oscar nomination for the original song “I See the Light.” Now, it remains to be seen whether the live-action adaptation can surpass its animated predecessor.
