Scarlett Johansson Exits Disney’s Tangled, Joins The Batman 2 and Exorcist

Scarlett Johansson, once in talks to portray Mother Gothel, has reportedly decided to part ways with Disney ’s live-action Tangled adaptation. As Disney’s remake pipeline continues after a turbulent 2025, the studio is pushing ahead with casting in London, but Johansson’s schedule is now packed with new projects. She’s set to appear in The Batman Part II and will headline Mike Flanagan’s upcoming Exorcist reboot.

Johansson’s New Roles: The Batman Part II and Exorcist

Industry insiders are buzzing about Johansson’s involvement in The Batman Part II. While fans speculated she might play characters like Andrea Beaumont, Vicki Vale, or Poison Ivy, recent reports suggest she’s likely to take on the role of Gilda Gold, Harvey Dent’s wife. This character, first introduced in Detective Comics #66 back in 1942, is central to Dent’s transformation into Two-Face and plays a pivotal part in Batman: The Long Halloween. If confirmed, Johansson’s role would place her at the emotional heart of the story, rather than on the sidelines.

On the horror front, Johansson is set to star in Mike Flanagan’s Exorcist reboot. The film has also cast Jacobi Jupe, who is rumored to play her son, though details remain under wraps. Production is scheduled to begin in New York this March, following Flanagan’s completion of Carrie. The director has stated:

Production hasn’t started, we need to finish CARRIE first. No way it ’s coming out next March. Nothing to worry about though.

Backed by Blumhouse and Morgan Creek, with Universal distributing, the new Exorcist aims to break away from the classic possessed-girl formula. Flanagan promises a film with deeper moral and spiritual themes, calling it his “scariest movie ” yet.

Disney’s Tangled: Casting Shifts and Production Plans

Disney’s live-action Tangled faced delays after controversy surrounding Snow White, but momentum picked up again earlier this year. Johansson was briefly attached as Mother Gothel before stepping aside. Michael Gracey remains on board as director, with filming tentatively set for June 2026 in the UK, though no release date has been announced.

Recent casting sessions in London focused on finding the right actors for Rapunzel and Flynn Rider. The shortlist for Rapunzel includes Freya Skye, Sarah Catherine Hook, Olivia-Mai Barrett, and Tegan Croft. Lola Tung was also considered but couldn’t participate due to scheduling conflicts. Disney’s move toward younger talent suggests a fresh direction for the project, rather than relying on established stars.

What Johansson’s Departure Means for Tangled

With Johansson stepping away, Tangled loses a major name, but the project may benefit from the chance to establish its own identity. Her absence leaves a noticeable gap, but it also opens the door for new faces to shine. As Disney recalibrates its approach, fans are left to wonder whether Johansson made the right call for her career or if the studio missed an opportunity to anchor Tangled with her star power.

Disney’s live-action Tangled is still without a confirmed release date.