Kathryn Hahn’s Mother Gothel Shines at D23 as Disney’s Live-Action ‘Tangled’ Sets Release Date

Disney’s live-action remake efforts have had a notoriously mixed reception, with fans often approaching each new announcement with skepticism rather than excitement. Every casting reveal tends to reignite the debate over whether these reimaginings can truly capture the charm of the animated originals.

‘Tangled’ appeared destined for a similar uncertain reception, at least until one specific casting decision changed the narrative. Fans had been advocating online for a particular actress to portray the film’s iconic villain, and that wish became a reality earlier this year.

The excitement culminated at D23, where Disney confirmed that Kathryn Hahn’s live-action ‘Tangled’ will officially hit theaters on March 31, 2028. A brief first-look teaser sent the Anaheim crowd into a frenzy, showcasing Rapunzel’s famously long blonde hair before revealing Kathryn Hahn’s Mother Gothel stepping from a shadowy doorway, calling out, “Rapunzel!”

Those present reported that the entire Honda Center erupted when Hahn’s face appeared on screen, signaling that fans’ long campaign for her casting had finally borne fruit. Hahn then took the stage herself, humorously discussing her character’s parenting style before officially embracing the role.

“She may be a little overprotective, but that’s because she cares so much,” Hahn shared with the D23 audience, adding that Gothel is “the best kind of villain, the kind who thinks she’s actually a hero.” This lighthearted moment perfectly encapsulated why fans have been so enthusiastic about her casting since the announcement.

Hahn’s journey to becoming Mother Gothel wasn’t entirely straightforward. Scarlett Johansson was initially considered for the role, but scheduling conflicts with ‘The Batman Part II’ and an ‘Exorcist’ reboot led her to step aside, paving the way for Hahn to confirm her casting back in March through a playful Instagram video featuring a Gothel-themed t-shirt.

Joining Hahn in the film are Teagan Croft as Rapunzel and Milo Manheim as Flynn Rider, both relatively new actors stepping into roles made famous in the 2010 animated classic. Croft and Manheim also sent a virtual message from the film’s production in Spain, appearing in costume to greet fans directly from set.

Diego Luna will also star as an original character created specifically for this adaptation, while Patrick and Hugo McPherson portray the villainous Stabbington brothers. Michael Gracey, known for ‘The Greatest Showman’ and ‘Better Man’, is directing the project based on a screenplay by Jennifer Kaytin Robinson.

Disney fully embraced the moment during the reveal, filling the arena with floating lanterns as a nod to one of the animated film’s most iconic sequences. This theatrical touch has become a hallmark of Disney’s biggest D23 reveals, designed to immerse fans in the story.

Production has been underway in Spain for several weeks, with location filming taking place at sites like Burgos Cathedral for scenes set within the kingdom. Early set photos of Hahn in character had already begun circulating online ahead of the official D23 unveiling.

With a confirmed release date and Hahn’s portrayal of Mother Gothel generating considerable buzz, ‘Tangled’ has quickly risen to become one of the most anticipated entries in Disney’s live-action lineup.

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