Actress Kathryn Hahn will portray the villain Mother Gothel in Disney's upcoming live-action adaptation of "Tangled" [1].
The casting marks a significant addition to Disney's ongoing strategy of reimagining animated classics for live-action audiences. By selecting Hahn, known for her versatility in comedy and drama, the studio aims to bring a specific energy to one of its most manipulative antagonists.
Hahn said the news during the D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event in 2026 [2]. During the appearance, she said the appeal of playing iconic villains and how the role of Mother Gothel fits into her acting interests [3].
The film is slated to open in theaters on March 31 [4]. While the specific year for the release was not detailed in the announcement, the project was a primary focus of the D23 presentations this month.
Disney's live-action remakes have become a cornerstone of the company's theatrical slate, often blending nostalgia with updated visual effects. The adaptation of "Tangled" follows a pattern of converting high-concept animated worlds into tangible settings.
Hahn said that playing such a character allows her to explore the complexities of a villain. The D23 event provided a platform for the studio to showcase first-look footage and descriptions of the film's direction [5].
The production continues to build anticipation among the Disney fan base, as the studio leverages the popularity of the original 2010 animated feature. Hahn's involvement suggests a focus on strong character performances to anchor the spectacle of the live-action format [1].
“Kathryn Hahn will portray the villain Mother Gothel”
This casting reflects Disney's trend of hiring established, critically acclaimed actors to lead its live-action remakes, moving away from purely traditional casting. By anchoring the film with a powerhouse performer like Hahn, Disney is attempting to ensure the emotional weight of the antagonist matches the visual scale of the production.
