Scarlett Johansson may be adding another iconic role to her impressive career — this time in Disney’s highly anticipated live-action adaptation of Tangled. The actress recently addressed the swirling rumors that she’s set to portray the film’s infamous villain, Mother Gothel, offering a playful yet intriguing response.
A Hint and High Praise
Speaking with Entertainment Tonight at the Newport Beach Film Festival, Johansson, 40, was asked if there was “a real possibility” she would play Mother Gothel. With a laugh, she replied, “Is there a real possibility? I think anything is possible.” She went on to praise the film’s attached director, Michael Gracey, calling him “an extraordinary visionary” and expressing her admiration for his creative approach.
“What would excite me about it would be the opportunity to work with Michael Gracey,” Johansson said. “He is just absolutely an extraordinary visionary and any actor would love to have that collaboration with him.”
The Vision Behind the Project
Michael Gracey, best known for directing The Greatest Showman, was announced as the director of Disney’s live-action Tangled in December 2024. His flair for blending emotion with spectacle made him a natural choice for bringing the beloved fairy tale back to life. However, according to Deadline, Disney temporarily paused development on the film in April 2025 after the studio’s live-action Snow White struggled at the box office.
While no official casting announcements have been made, industry insiders expect Johansson to take on the role of Mother Gothel — the controlling, manipulative caretaker who keeps Rapunzel locked away from the world. In the 2010 animated original, the character was memorably voiced by Donna Murphy.
Revisiting a Modern Disney Classic
Tangled reimagines the Brothers Grimm fairy tale of Rapunzel for a new generation. The story follows Princess Rapunzel (originally voiced by Mandy Moore), who has magical, healing hair and has spent her entire life confined to a tower by Mother Gothel. When the adventurous thief Flynn Rider (Zachary Levi) stumbles upon her hiding place, Rapunzel escapes on a life-changing journey to discover the truth about her identity and reunite with her family.
The film was a critical and commercial success upon its release in 2010, earning over $590 million worldwide and marking the beginning of Disney’s modern animation renaissance. Fans continue to adore its humor, heart, and Oscar-winning song “I See the Light.”
Johansson’s Expanding Portfolio
If Johansson does join the project, it would mark her latest collaboration with Disney following her celebrated role as Natasha Romanoff in the Avengers franchise. She recently starred in Jurassic World: Rebirth and The Phoenician Scheme, further showcasing her versatility across genres.
In addition to acting, Johansson has also stepped behind the camera — her directorial debut, Eleanor the Great, is currently in theaters, earning positive reviews for its emotional storytelling.
What Comes Next
While fans await confirmation of her role, Johansson’s comments suggest a genuine enthusiasm for the creative direction of Disney’s Tangled remake. Whether or not she officially takes on the mantle of Mother Gothel, her admiration for Gracey’s artistry — and her openness to the project — have certainly fueled excitement for what could be one of Disney’s most visually captivating live-action adaptations yet.
If the stars align, audiences may soon see Scarlett Johansson breathe new life into one of Disney’s most complex and fascinating characters — reminding the world that sometimes, the best fairy tales are worth retelling.
