Acclaimed actress Kathryn Hahn has officially been announced to portray the infamous antagonist Mother Gothel in Disney’s much-anticipated live-action adaptation of the beloved animated classic, Tangled. Known for her versatile performances and Emmy-nominated roles, Hahn will bring to life the sinister character who deceives Rapunzel by posing as her mother and keeping her secluded to exploit the magical powers of her long, golden hair.
The announcement was subtly made by Hahn herself on March 11, when she posted a playful video on Instagram. In the clip, she humorously revealed that she had only recently learned the meaning of the popular social media acronym “OOTD,” which stands for “Outfit of the Day.” The video featured her wearing a T-shirt adorned with multiple cutouts of Mother Gothel, originally voiced by Donna Murphy in the 2010 animated film. Hahn captioned the post simply as “OOTD, Mother Gothel,” delighting fans with a glimpse of her connection to the character.
It is worth noting that the casting of Hahn marks a significant development in the film’s production journey. Earlier this year, in January, reports surfaced that she was in discussions to take on the role, following a period of uncertainty. Production on Tangled had resumed in October after initial plans saw Scarlett Johansson considered for the villainous part. However, Johansson had to withdraw due to scheduling conflicts, opening the door for Hahn to step in and make the role her own.
Alongside Hahn, the film will feature Teagan Croft as Rapunzel, the story’s central heroine whose extraordinary hair holds magical healing properties. Milo Manheim has also been cast as Flynn Rider, the charming and roguish thief known for his signature smolder and quick wit. This trio of actors is expected to bring fresh energy and depth to the beloved fairy tale, blending nostalgia with a modern cinematic approach.
Disney’s decision to revisit Tangled with a live-action version reflects the studio’s ongoing strategy to reimagine its classic animated hits for new audiences. The original Tangled film, released in 2010, was praised for its vibrant animation, memorable characters, and catchy soundtrack, making it a fan favorite. With Kathryn Hahn’s involvement, expectations are high that the live-action adaptation will capture the dark complexity of Mother Gothel while delivering a compelling narrative experience.
Fans of the franchise and followers of Hahn’s career eagerly await further updates on the film’s progress, including release dates and additional casting announcements. For now, the actress’s lighthearted Instagram reveal has sparked excitement and speculation, signaling that production is moving forward and that audiences will soon see a new take on this classic Disney villainess.
