Disney’s upcoming live-action adaptation of the animated classic Tangled has garnered significant attention, particularly with the casting of Kathryn Hahn in the iconic role of Mother Gothel. The announcement, made in March, has brought excitement not only to fans but also to those who have previously portrayed the character in various forms.
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Donna Murphy, who lent her voice to Mother Gothel in the original 2010 animated film, recently expressed her enthusiastic support for Hahn taking on this pivotal role. Speaking exclusively to PEOPLE at the opening night of Broadway’s School Girls; Or, The African Mean Girls Play in New York City, the 67-year-old performer shared her thoughts on what Hahn would bring to the character.
Murphy described her feelings upon hearing about Hahn’s casting as “thrilled”, noting that she has been a longtime admirer of Hahn’s work. “We did a pilot together years ago with Jeff Goldblum, and I’ve just been a fan of hers since,” Murphy revealed. “When she got the gig, I was overjoyed—she’s a rockstar. She’s going to absolutely kill it.”
In light of Hahn’s success and talent, Murphy felt there was little need for her to offer guidance as she steps into the role. “She doesn’t need any advice,” the two-time Tony Award winner said. “She was sort of doing the ‘I am not worthy’ thing, and I was like, ‘Don’t even kid yourself, woman. You have everything you need for the Mother—Mother knows best.’”
Disney’s live-action remake of Tangled, which reimagines the beloved fairy tale of Rapunzel, marks another exciting project for the studio following the recent trend of live-action adaptations. The original film starred Mandy Moore as Rapunzel and Zachary Levi as Flynn Rider, alongside an impressive ensemble that included Ron Perlman, Jeffrey Tambor, and Brad Garrett.
In addition to Hahn’s casting, the film will feature Teagan Croft as Rapunzel and Milo Manheim as Flynn, promising a fresh and vibrant retelling of the beloved story. The character of Mother Gothel, as the central antagonist, has significant depth and complexity that will likely offer Hahn a captivating performance space.
Hahn herself shared her enthusiasm about starring in a musical at this point in her career, indicating that she “never thought” she would take on such a role. Describing her rehearsals in Spain, she compared the experience to being part of a musical extravaganza, saying, “I’m just telling people that it feels like I’m in Fame right now.”
Hahn mentioned that the role has also pushed her to work on her physicality. “Grace—natural grace—and agility don’t come very easily. So that’s been a real fun thing to figure out,” she added, speaking to her commitment to fully embracing the character of Mother Gothel.
As the project moves forward, anticipation is growing for how Hahn will interpret Mother Gothel and bring new elements to the character made famous by Murphy. “She’s such a fabulous part, Mother Gothel,” Hahn enthused. “It’s all things I never thought I would be able to say I did in my life.”
The live-action adaptation of Tangled is set to make its theatrical debut on March 31, 2028. As fans of both the original film and new audiences await its release, the excitement surrounding the casting choices is palpable, promising a fresh take on a timeless tale. With both Murphy’s endorsement and Hahn’s commitment, this adaptation could add a new chapter to the beloved story, ensuring its place in Disney’s rich legacy of animated classics turned live-action features.