Happy Friday, today is a special mailbag because I’m releasing this on my 36th birthday and boy is time flying by. This week discuss all sorts of rumors, updates on various projects, and a bit on the Pirates of the Caribbean rumors going around. So, let’s get into it, shall we?

Besides Tangled, what other live-action movies are Disney likely to shoot in the next year or so?

As of now, Lilo & Stitch 2 is the only one scheduled to shoot this year. However, I had heard Disney is really trying to make the scheduling work to get Prince Charming starring Chris Hemsworth in front of the camera, but that will likely happen next year.

Odds we actually see Cruella 2?

Odds are good, the creatives and talent want to do it, the studio wants to do it, and it is all about getting the script and scheduling right. I bet we will see it in the next couple of years.

Do you think Disney would ever do a live-action Villains movie?

I don’t think so, but I do know a creative pitched the idea of a villain-led team-up movie, but I have no idea if that was meant to be animated, live-action, centered around the remake villains, or new villains. I think Disney passed on it.

Which Disney trailers are coming to CinemaCon?

Disney’s CinemaCon slot is traditionally used to preview trailers and reveal exclusive footage for their 2026 films, and they usually do not post what is shown at the event online. Those in attendance will likely see footage for The Mandalorian and Grogu, Toy Story 5, Moana,The Devil Wears Prada 2, and quite possibly Avengers: Doomsday and Hexed.

What do you make of the recent contradictory rumors and statements regarding Pirates of the Caribbean 6?

I assume you mean the rumor that Jack Sparrow’s son would lead the movie alongside Margot Robbie, that producer Jerry Bruckheimer said was half true. Well, the outlet that originally reported the rumor has a pretty solid trackrecord and is not one to make things up for clicks. That said, I believe Disney wants the next movie to be Johnny Depp-led alongside Margot Robbie, with hopes that future installments in the franchise can continue on with Robbie’s character and quite possibly the son of Sparrow.

Tiana is the last official Disney Princess who hasn’t received a live-action remake, especially since Raya, Pocahontas, and Merida are widely believed not to be getting one. I am wondering if there have been any updates at all regarding a live-action Princess and the Frog. If there isn’t anything concrete yet, do you personally see Disney developing one in the near future?

Disney has discussed doing one, and Disney will do one; it is a matter of when, not if. As of now, there are no details regarding the project as a writer has not boarded the project at this time.

There are rumors that Disney is working on a Live Action Ursula film, which reveals her past. Is that true?

No.

Since it’s the 20th anniversary of the Cars franchise, will a Cars 4 be announced at some point this year? D23 Expo maybe?

There have been rumors of a fourth movie being developed, I’ve always been told that it’s not true or happening but I could definitely see the studio doing one eventually, as Cars remains one of the company’s biggest brands.

What Disney movies would you like to see go back in theaters to celebrate their anniversary like they did for The Lion King and Toy Story?

Next year, 3 movies celebrate their 50th anniversary, The Rescuers, Pete’s Dragon, and the The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh. Hercules is celebrating its 30 year anniversary. Ratatouille turns 20 next year. All these films could get some sort of theatrical return. Plus, it would be nice to revisit these films on the big screen.

When do you expect we would hear if the Muppet Show reboot was given a series order?

While I am no official Disney rep, what I will say is The Muppet Show will definitely do more specials, and they’re already in development on future episodes and have guests in mind. Now, when can we expect to hear more “officially”? It could be any day now.

What Star Wars movies do you think could get fast-tracked after Star Wars: Starfighter?

While I can’t confirm anything at this time and it’s usually pretty hard to when it comes to Lucasfilm, what I can say is that I expect Taika Waititi’s film to be the next one, Lucasfilm apparently loves the script and Dave Filoni and Waititi have worked closely following his directorial efforts on The Mandalorian.

What is the wildest Disney movie rumor you’ve ever heard? Whether that rumor was or true or not, I’m just curious of all the things you hear.

What a fun question. The wildest rumor I’ve ever received was that Disney wanted Guillermo Del Toro to direct the third Maleficent movie.

More recently, I was told that Disney was developing a live-action/CGI Winnie-The-Pooh movie, which would loosely be a remake of Winnie-The Pooh and the Blustery Day.

It was announced some time ago but any updates on the Shawn Levy Real Steel Disney plus series or is it dead?

I believe the idea of a series is dead but I have heard a sequel on the big screen is the route the studio wants to go but right now director Shawn Levy, who would oversee the project, is busy working on Star Wars: Starfighter.

Have you heard anything about Hexed?

I have received a lot of questions about Hexed and I have to admit, Disney Animation is keeping this one under wraps, we likely won’t hear anything about this project until around June.

Do you think Disney would be willing to bet on a new deaf princess in theaters? Which existing fairy tale would you bet on for Disney’s new deaf princess?

It’s always possible Disney has been moving toward broader representation, so a deaf princess could be a strong, timely choice especially if developed with Deaf writers, actors, and consultants to ensure authenticity. Would they draw on a fairy tale? I highly doubt it, this would be a case for Disney to develop their own story and characters.

Any updates on Princess Diaries 3? Will Julie Andrews and Chris Pine return?

It’s still in the works, casting calls went out last year and Anne Hathaway has been busy with The Devil Wears Prada 2. Julie Andrews is expected as her character plays a minor role in the third installment. As for Chris Pine, I am not sure if he’s expected back.

That’s all for this week’s mailbag. Stay tuned as every week, a new DisInsider Mailbag will drop.