Scarlett Johansson Ditches Disney's Tangled for Batman and Exorcist
The Black Widow star has reportedly walked away from playing Mother Gothel in Disney's live-action remake, choosing instead to take on mysterious roles in two major upcoming franchises that could redefine her career.
The actress who once brought Black Widow to life has made a strategic career move that's sending ripples through Hollywood. After being linked to Disney's upcoming live-action remake as the villain Mother Gothel, she's now completely stepped back from the project. Instead, industry insiders confirm she's committed to appearing in the highly anticipated sequel to Robert Pattinson's Dark Knight saga, plus Mike Flanagan's terrifying new take on the classic horror franchise.
New Roles Promise Fresh Challenges
Her involvement in the Gotham-based sequel has generated significant buzz among comic book enthusiasts. While fans initially speculated about iconic characters like Andrea Beaumont, Vicki Vale, or Poison Ivy, industry insider Jeff Sneider suggests she'll portray Gilda Gold, Harvey Dent's wife. This character first appeared in Detective Comics #66 back in August 1942 and plays a crucial part in Harvey Dent's transformation into Two-Face.
If this casting proves accurate, it positions her at the emotional center of one of Batman's most tragic storylines rather than in a peripheral role. Gilda Gold features prominently in the acclaimed comic series Batman: The Long Halloween by Jeph Loeb and Tim Sale, where her secret confession about the Holiday murders remains known only to readers, creating a powerful narrative tension.
Horror Project Adds Star Power
On the horror front, she's set to lead Flanagan's reboot, with Jacobi Jupe joining the cast in an undisclosed role believed to be her character's son. Jupe recently appeared in Hamnet and brings fresh talent to the production. Flanagan plans to begin filming in March in New York after completing work on his Carrie adaptation.
The director has promised his most frightening film yet, emphasizing that he won't rehash the familiar possessed-girl storyline. Instead, he's focusing on moral complexity and spiritual dread. The project has backing from Blumhouse and Morgan Creek, with Universal handling distribution after acquiring rights for $400 million. Flanagan recently stated: 'Production hasn't started, we need to finish CARRIE first. No way it's coming out next March. Nothing to worry about though.'
Disney Moves Forward Without Major Star
Meanwhile, Disney's fairy tale adaptation continues development despite losing its marquee villain. Michael Gracey remains attached to direct, with production scheduled for the UK in June 2026. The studio recently conducted screen tests and chemistry reads in London for the lead roles of Rapunzel and Flynn Rider.
The shortlist for Rapunzel includes Freya Skye, Sarah Catherine Hook, Olivia-Mai Barrett, and Tegan Croft. Lola Tung was considered but couldn't participate due to scheduling conflicts. This shift toward younger, less established actors suggests Disney wants to create a fresh interpretation rather than rely on star recognition. Her departure removes a major name from the project but might allow the adaptation to establish its own identity without expectations tied to her Marvel legacy.