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Scarlett Johansson could be the next Disney icon in the making. When asked at Newport Beach Film Festival Honors 2025 about the swirling rumors of her taking on the role of Mother Gothel in the upcoming live-action remake of Tangled, Johansson responded with a coy but promising, “Anything is possible.” She also revealed, “What would excite me would be to work with Michael Gracey, who is attached to direct, because he is an extraordinary visionary.”
With Disney’s track record of transforming animated classics into live-action blockbusters, the idea of Johansson stepping into the iconic role of Rapunzel’s manipulative “mother” feels like a natural fit. Here are five reasons why Scarlett Johansson might be the perfect casting choice.
1. She’s a Proven Box Office Powerhouse
Scarlett Johansson isn’t just a star. She’s one of the most bankable actors of all time. As the highest-grossing actor in box office history, she has led global hits from the Avengers: Endgame era to recently Jurassic World Rebirth to indie favorites that cemented her reputation as a serious performer. Casting her would instantly boost the film’s visibility, making it an event film the moment the news breaks.
2. She Can Sing — And “Mother Knows Best” Would Be a Moment
While Johansson is not best known for being a Broadway-caliber singer, she has a well-documented music career, including two studio albums and collaborations with artists like Pete Yorn. That natural vocal ability would serve her well in the show-stopping number “Mother Knows Best,” which is one of Disney’s most deliciously villainous songs. She has the confidence and vocal control to give it new life on the big screen.
3. Awards-Level Acting Chops
This is not just about star power. Johansson is a multiple-time Academy Award nominee, delivering unforgettable performances in films like Marriage Story, Under the Skin, and Jojo Rabbit. She would join a long line of celebrated actors who have elevated Disney live-action projects, following in the footsteps of talents like Emma Thompson, Cate Blanchett, and Angelina Jolie.
4. A Chance to Return Home to Disney
Johansson has a long history with The Walt Disney Company through her iconic role as Black Widow in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Though her relationship with the studio hit a legal bump in 2021, it ended on an amicable note with a reported $40 million settlement. Johansson has spoken fondly about her relationships with Disney executives, including Bob Iger and Kevin Feige. A starring role in Tangled could mark a full-circle moment and a highly publicized reunion with the Mouse House.
5. A New Challenge That Plays to Her Strengths
Johansson’s career has spanned indie dramas, blockbusters, action thrillers, and animation. She has voiced beloved characters in Sing, The Jungle Book, and Transformers One. A Disney live-action musical would be a new adventure, pushing her into fresh territory while staying within her broad range of skills. A glamorous, complex villain like Mother Gothel would give her plenty to sink her teeth into.
With Michael Gracey at the helm and Disney’s penchant for turning nostalgic hits into gold, casting Scarlett Johansson as Mother Gothel feels like the kind of bold, star-driven move that could make this remake a must-watch event. Whether or not it happens, the idea has fans buzzing and the industry watching closely.
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