Kathryn Hahn has been officially cast as Mother Gothel in Disney’s upcoming live-action adaptation of Tangled, currently in production. The announcement was made by the Emmy-nominated actress through an Instagram video where she playfully revealed her new role, aligning herself with the iconic villain of the 2010 animated film.
Details of the Role and Casting Reveal
In the Instagram clip, Hahn wore a black t-shirt adorned with various depictions of Mother Gothel, the character originally voiced by Tony Award winner Donna Murphy. She also styled her social media handle as @motherhahn and included “Mother knows best”—a key line from the animated film—as her profile biography, signaling her deep connection to the role.
Disney supported the casting reveal by reposting Hahn’s video across its official social media platforms with the caption,
“You want her to be the bad guy? FINE. Kathryn Hahn is Mother Gothel in Disney’s live-action ‘Tangled.’”
Supporting Cast and Production Team Announced
Kathryn Hahn was among considered talent alongside Marvel star Scarlett Johansson for the villain role, with Hahn ultimately securing the part. Earlier this year, the leads for Rapunzel and Flynn Rider were confirmed as Teagan Croft and Milo Manheim, respectively, playing roles initially voiced by Mandy Moore and Zachary Levi.
The film is directed by Michael Gracey, known for The Greatest Showman, with Jennifer Kaytin Robinson handling the screenplay. This live-action remake is part of Disney’s ongoing strategy to reimagine animated classics with new talent and fresh perspectives.
Kathryn Hahn’s Career Highlights and Recent Roles
Hahn’s career spans various notable projects, especially in comedy, including Step Brothers, How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days, and more recently, the mystery film Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery. She earned her fourth Emmy nomination for the series The Studio. Additionally, Hahn plays Agatha Harkness in the Marvel Cinematic Universe series Agatha All Along, further cementing her versatility across genres.
“You want her to be the bad guy? FINE. Kathryn Hahn is Mother Gothel in Disney’s live-action ‘Tangled.'”
—Disney Studios
Significance and Expectations for the Live-Action Tangled
The casting of Kathryn Hahn as Mother Gothel brings anticipation for a fresh yet faithful portrayal of this classic villain, supported by her proven acting range and charm. With a creative team led by Michael Gracey and Jennifer Kaytin Robinson, the project aims to balance nostalgia with new storytelling elements. Fans of the original film and newcomers alike can look forward to how Hahn’s interpretation will enrich this beloved fairy tale as production continues.
