Disney isn’t done mining its animated classics just yet — and this time, the spotlight is shifting to one of its most infamous villains. According to Deadline, the studio is in early development on a live-action Beauty and the Beast spinoff centered on Gaston.
The outlet first reported the news on December 15, 2025, noting that Dave Callaham has been tapped to write the script, with Michelle Rejwan producing. No director is currently attached. Kate Herron and Briony Redman reportedly penned an earlier draft of the screenplay.
Gaston first appeared in Disney’s 1992 animated classic as the arrogant hunter obsessed with winning Belle’s affection — and ultimately, the Beast’s main antagonist. The character returned in Disney’s 2017 live-action remake, portrayed by Luke Evans. That film became a billion-dollar box office hit, and at one point sparked plans for a Disney+ series focused on Gaston, with Evans expected to reprise the role. That project was later scrapped.
This new take, however, is said to be entirely fresh. Sources say the movie will feature a new actor stepping into the role, with a story described as “swashbuckling” in tone. While specific plot details are still under wraps, insiders say Disney is enthusiastic about the concept and views it as a standalone reimagining rather than a direct extension of previous versions.
The Gaston spinoff arrives amid mixed signals about Disney’s live-action future. Despite reports that a live-action Tangled reboot was shelved following the underperformance of Snow White, multiple projects appear to remain in motion behind the scenes.
Recent rumors suggested Scarlett Johansson had been in talks to play Mother Gothel, though Jeff Sneider later reported she passed to join Matt Reeves’ The Batman sequel. Nexus Point News has since claimed several young actresses are being considered for Rapunzel.
“At this time, it remains unclear whether any of these actresses have formally screen tested for the role of Rapunzel. What we can confirm is that all four have been discussed internally and are among the names circulating through various channels. Of the names shared with us, Sadie Sink was referenced most consistently, with several independent sources mentioning her in relation to the project.”
Sadie Sink, Mckenna Grace, Emma Myers and Isabel May were all named in the report.
As for Tangled, previous reports suggested Baz Luhrmann was being eyed to direct, though The Hollywood Reporter has since said The Greatest Showman filmmaker Michael Gracey remains attached.
