Disney’s ‘Robin Hood’ Remake Scrapped: Director Confirms Project’s Demise

Disney’s plans for a live-action/CGI remake of its 1973 animated classic, Robin Hood, have been officially canceled, according to director Carlos López Estrada. The project, first announced in 2020, was intended for release on Disney+, but has been shelved despite initial enthusiasm from the director.

Estrada Confirms Cancellation

Estrada revealed the news during a Reddit “Ask Me Anything” (AMA) session, stating, “It’s dead sadly. I say sadly since I actually thought there was something really special (and original!) there. Some truly extraordinary music we had figured out for it.” [Source: Reddit AMA]

Project Details and Creative Team

The planned remake was envisioned as a live-action/CGI hybrid. Estrada, known for directing Raya and the Last Dragon (2021) and Blindspotting (2018), was set to helm the project. [Source: Variety] Kari Granlund, who penned the screenplay for the 2019 Disney+ remake of Lady and the Tramp, was attached as the screenwriter. Justin Springer, a producer on the 2019 live-action Dumbo, was likewise slated to produce. [Source: Deadline]

Disney’s Remake Strategy

Despite the cancellation of Robin Hood, Disney continues to develop live-action adaptations of its animated classics, including projects based on Moana, Tangled, and Hercules. [Source: Variety]

About the Original ‘Robin Hood’

The original 1973 animated Robin Hood offered a musical retelling of the classic English folklore legend, featuring anthropomorphic animals. Robin Hood and Maid Marian were depicted as foxes, while characters like Little John and Prince John appeared as other animal species. The story centers on Robin Hood’s efforts to steal from the rich to aid the poor citizens of Nottingham. [Source: Deadline]

Estrada’s Future Plans

While the Disney project is no longer moving forward, Estrada expressed interest in potentially pursuing the story independently with different characters. [Source: Variety]