Disney is developing a live-action origin story about Medusa, with Dwayne Johnson attached as a producer, bringing one of ancient Greece’s most recognisable mythological figures to the screen.
Disney is developing a new live-action film centred on Medusa, the legendary Gorgon of ancient Greek mythology, in a project that could offer a fresh interpretation of one of Greece’s most enduring mythological characters.
The film is being developed as a villain origin story, following the approach taken by Disney’s Cruella, which explored the background of the iconic villain from 101 Dalmatians.
Michael Montemayor, who is also working on Disney’s upcoming live-action adaptation of Tangled, is developing the screenplay.
Read more: Ancient Greek Pontus Used Medusa Coins Against Rome
Hollywood actor Dwayne Johnson is attached as a producer through his Seven Bucks Productions company, alongside producing partners Dany Garcia and Hiram Garcia. It remains unclear whether Johnson will have an acting role in the production.
Details of the storyline, casting and release schedule have not yet been announced.
Medusa’s Greek mythology story set for a new interpretation
Medusa is among the most recognisable figures in Greek mythology. Traditionally depicted with living snakes in place of hair, the Gorgon possessed the ability to turn anyone who looked directly at her into stone.
Her story has been interpreted in different ways throughout history, particularly regarding her transformation into a monster.
In Ovid’s version of the myth, Medusa was originally a beautiful young woman who was transformed by Athena after being violated by Poseidon in the goddess’s temple.
Modern interpretations have increasingly portrayed Medusa as a tragic figure rather than simply a terrifying monster, exploring themes of injustice, punishment and the abuse of power.
It remains unknown which version of her story Disney intends to explore. However, the decision to develop an origin film suggests audiences could see a different perspective on the character and the events that shaped her mythology.
Dwayne Johnson joins another major Disney project
The Medusa production adds to Michael Montemayor’s growing involvement in Disney’s live-action projects.
He is also working on Tangled, which has completed filming and is scheduled for release on March 31, 2028.
The film stars Australian actress Teagan Croft as Rapunzel and Milo Manheim as Flynn Rider. The cast also includes Caitríona Balfe, Elliot Cowan and Kathryn Hahn, who plays the villainous Mother Gothel.
Montemayor is additionally attached to Stepsisters, an original live-action Cinderella spin-off directed by Akiva Schaffer.
Greek mythology continues to inspire Hollywood
Disney’s interest in Medusa highlights the continuing international appeal of ancient Greek mythology and its extraordinary collection of characters and stories.
From the Olympian gods and legendary heroes to the creatures and monsters of Greek folklore, these ancient narratives continue to provide inspiration for modern entertainment.
Disney has already found success with its Greek mythology-inspired franchise Percy Jackson and the Olympians, introducing a new generation of viewers to the world of Greek gods, demigods and legendary creatures.
Medusa’s story offers another opportunity to bring Greece’s mythological heritage to a global audience.
With one of antiquity’s most famous female figures at the centre of the project, audiences will be watching to see how Disney approaches the story of the Gorgon whose image has endured for thousands of years.
