Every Live-Action Disney Remake That’s Been Announced

Disney’s vault of animated classics is being unlocked once more, as the studio continues its push to reimagine its beloved catalog for a new generation. Following the massive success of films like The Lion King and Beauty and the Beast, a steady stream of new live-action remakes and sequels have been announced, promising to bring iconic stories and characters to life in new ways. From timeless fairy tales to modern animated hits, the upcoming slate is filled with highly anticipated projects that will either reinvent the originals or continue them with new adventures.

Though many of these projects still have their share of uncertainties from the production side, these are every live-action remake or sequel that has been officially announced and is currently in development.

1. Moana

This live-action remake of the 2016 hit animated film, Moana, was announced in 2023 by Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson. In the film and its sequel, Johnson voiced the demi-god, Maui, and will be reprising his role in live-action. The film is slated for a July 2026 release, with Thomas Kail, known for directing the Broadway musical sensation Hamilton, at the helm.

The live-action version will follow the same premise as the original, with a curious and fearless girl setting sail on a daring journey to save her people. In addition to Johnson, the cast includes 18-year-old newcomer, Catherine Laga‘aia, in the title role. The project is expected to expand on the beloved story and its themes of self-discovery and cultural heritage.

2. The Hunchback of Notre Dame

Announced in 2019, a live-action remake of The Hunchback of Notre Dame has been in early development for quite some time. Josh Gad is attached as a producer and has been rumored to star as Quasimodo as well, though there has been no official confirmation. The film is expected to be a musical, with Alan Menken and Stephen Schwartz, the original songwriters, returning to work on the score.

The film’s production has stalled in recent years, with Alan Menken confirming that the project is currently in limbo. Victor Hugo’s 1831 novel upon which the film is based contains themes that are both dark and sensitive. As the studio is reportedly planning to adapt more elements from the novel, the question remains: how does Disney make a live action film with rather adult theme while staying true to the source material?

3. Tangled

A live-action adaptation of Tangled was in development, with reports in late 2024 confirming the project and the production team. However, following the disappointing box office performance of another live action remake— Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs—the Tangled remake was put on indefinite hold. It is unclear when, or if, the project will move forward.

The original animated film was a massive success. Rapunzel and Flynn Rider’s world is a vibrant and stunning one that would lend itself well to live action. Agatha All Along star, Kathryn Hahn, recently expressed interest in playing the villainous Mother Gothel. While little was confirmed about the plot or casting before the project’s delay, the news of the remake’s halt was a major disappointment for many.

4. Bambi

A live-action remake of the animated classic Bambi was announced way back in 2020, but has been met with many roadblocks, including the COVID-19 pandemic shutting down studios. The film is expected to be a CGI-live-action hybrid, similar to The Jungle Book and The Lion King, with a cast of voice actors bringing the animal characters to life.

While no cast has been announced, the film has had a few creative changes behind the scenes. In early 2024, the attached director— Sarah Polley — walked away from the project for reasons unknown. Since then, Disney has not provided any updates on the status of the film or production team.

5. Robin Hood

Disney is developing a live-action remake of its 1973 animated film Robin Hood. The new movie is confirmed to be a CGI/live-action hybrid in a similar style to the 2019 The Lion King film. The project is reported being directed by Carlos López Estrada and written by Kari Granlund.

The film is set to be a musical and will feature the return of classic characters like Robin Hood, Maid Marian, and Little John in their animal forms. An official release date has not been announced and little news about the status of the project is known.

6. Hercules

A live-action remake of the 1997 animated hit Hercules is in development, with Guy Ritchie at the helm as director. Ritchie also directed the live-action remake of Aladdin. The Russo Brothers— Joe and Anthony— known for their work on Marvel blockbusters such as Captain America: The Winter Soldier, Captain America: Civil War, Avengers: Infinity War, and Avengers: Endgame, are attached as producers. The film will reportedly incorporate elements from the original movie, but also introduce new parts as well.

In an interview with Variety, Joe Russo noted that the film with reinvent the musical for a modern age: “Audiences today have been trained by TikTok, right? What is their expectation of what that musical looks like and feels like? That can be a lot of fun and help us push the boundaries a little bit on how you execute a modern musical.” While a cast has not been officially announced, there has been widespread fan speculation and rumors about who might be cast in the leading roles. The project is still in the early stages of pre-production, with a search for a new screenwriter underway.

7. Cruella 2

Following the success of the 2021 live-action film Cruella, a sequel is officially in development. Emma Stone will reprise her role as the fashionable villainess, with director Craig Gillespie and writer Tony McNamara also returning. The film’s plot is expected to continue Cruella’s journey as a high-stakes fashion icon.

There has been speculation surrounding Disney’s plans with the film, as it is unknown whether or not Cruella 2 will release in theaters, on Disney+, or on both at the same time.The project is expected to go into production soon, but does not have a release date.

8. Aladdin 2

A sequel to the 2019 live-action Aladdin is in development, with Guy Ritchie returning to direct and John Gatins and Andrea Berloff attached as writers. Mena Massoud, Naomi Scott, and Will Smith are all expected to reprise their roles as Aladdin, Jasmine, and the Genie.

The film will feature an original story rather than a direct adaptation of the animated sequel The Return of Jafar. While the project has been in development for several years, recent updates have confirmed that it is still moving forward.

9. Maleficent 3

A third installment in the Maleficent series has been officially confirmed, with Angelina Jolie set to return as the titular character, and director Joachim Rønning expected to return. While the plot is still under wraps, the film is expected to continue the story of Maleficent and her goddaughter, Aurora.

Filming is expected to begin soon, with the film being a high priority for Disney. The film will reportedly be the final chapter in the series and is slated for a 2026 release.