Disney is continuing to mine its animated canon with a fresh live-action reimagining of one of its most infamous villains. The studio is in early development on a live-action film centered on Gaston, the larger-than-life antagonist from Beauty and the Beast, according to sources.
The project will be a new and original take on the character, separate from Disney’s 2017 live-action remake. Luke Evans, who portrayed Gaston in the blockbuster film, is not expected to reprise the role, as the studio plans to introduce a new actor and a reworked version of the character.
Gaston first appeared in Disney’s 1992 animated classic as a celebrated hunter and self-appointed hero of his provincial village. Revered by the townspeople for his strength and bravado, Gaston thrives on admiration and validation, positioning himself as the ideal suitor for Belle despite her repeated rejection. His charm masks deep insecurity, entitlement, and an obsession with maintaining control—traits that ultimately fuel his descent into villainy.
Unlike traditional Disney villains motivated by magic or political power, Gaston’s threat is rooted in ego and fear of losing status. His rivalry with the Beast evolves from wounded pride into violent obsession, culminating in a crusade that frames the Beast as a monster threatening societal order. Gaston’s arc has long been read as a critique of toxic masculinity, mob mentality, and the dangers of charismatic figures who weaponize public fear for personal gain.
While plot details for the upcoming film remain under wraps, sources say the story will adopt a more “swashbuckling” tone, suggesting an action-forward approach that may explore Gaston’s past, rise to notoriety, or the events that shaped his worldview before the events of Beauty and the Beast.
The screenplay is being written by Dave Callaham, with Michelle Rejwan producing. No director has been attached at this time. A previous draft was penned by Kate Herron and Briony Redman, though the current iteration is said to reflect a new creative direction.
Gaston’s last live-action appearance came in Disney’s 2017 remake of Beauty and the Beast, which grossed more than $1 billion worldwide and sparked early discussions of a potential spinoff series centered on the character. That project was ultimately shelved.
The new film continues Disney’s ongoing interest in revisiting iconic villains through standalone narratives, reframing familiar characters for contemporary audiences while expanding the mythology of its most enduring stories.