Original Mother Gothel Star Donna Murphy Has a Message for Kathryn Hahn Ahead of Disney’s ‘Tangled’ Remake

Kathryn Hahn is preparing to bring one of Disney’s most memorable villains to life, and the actress who originally voiced Mother Gothel has already given her enthusiastic approval.

Donna Murphy, who portrayed Mother Gothel in Disney’s 2010 animated film Tangled, recently shared her thoughts on Hahn taking over the role in the upcoming live-action adaptation. Rather than offering a list of instructions, Murphy made it clear that she believes the new star has everything needed to make the character her own.

Speaking exclusively to PEOPLE at the opening night of Broadway’s School Girls; Or, The African Mean Girls Play, Murphy said she was thrilled about Hahn’s casting. The two-time Tony Award winner described Hahn as a “rockstar” and expressed confidence that she would deliver a memorable performance.

Murphy also revealed that she had been a fan of Hahn for years. When the casting became official, she was delighted to congratulate the actress personally.

Asked whether she had any advice for Hahn before she stepped into the role, Murphy made her feelings clear: Hahn did not need any.

She recalled Hahn expressing a sense of disbelief about landing the part, but Murphy encouraged her to trust her own abilities. The original voice of Mother Gothel believes Hahn has all the talent necessary to take on the character.

For fans of the animated original, the casting represents a new chapter for a villain whose charm, manipulation and unforgettable musical number helped make Tangled a Disney favorite.

Hahn, known for performances in Agatha All Along and WandaVision, has admitted that taking on a musical film at this stage of her career was something she never expected. Preparing for the role has involved singing, dancing and working on the physical grace required for the character.

She has also spoken enthusiastically about filming in Spain and embracing the challenge of bringing Mother Gothel to life in a new way.

The upcoming remake will feature Teagan Croft as Rapunzel and Milo Manheim as Flynn Rider. The film is currently scheduled to arrive in theaters on March 31, 2028.

While Murphy’s original performance remains part of the legacy of the 2010 film, her support suggests she is ready to see another actress put her own stamp on the iconic role.

And with Hahn preparing to take on one of Disney’s most recognizable villains, audiences will have plenty of reasons to watch how this new version of Mother Gothel develops.

Source: PEOPLE

Additional source: Los Angeles Times