The Fairy Tale Continues: 4 Once Upon A Time Lead Actresses And Their Exciting 2025 Projects

The magic of Storybrooke may have ended on screen, but for the lead actresses of Once Upon a Time, their careers are flourishing with new and exciting ventures in 2025. The beloved ABC fantasy series, which ran from 2011 to 2018, captivated audiences by blending classic fairy tales with a modern, dramatic twist, centered on the journey of Savior Emma Swan and the complex lives of Snow White, the Evil Queen, and Belle. As of December 2025, the stars who brought these iconic characters to life are busier than ever, moving into major voice acting roles, directing, producing, and even launching new business ventures.

This in-depth look explores the current professional lives of the core "Once Upon a Time" lead actresses, providing the latest updates on their upcoming movies, television shows, and the possibility of a long-awaited reunion or reboot. Fans of the show will be thrilled to see how the women of Storybrooke are continuing to create their own happy endings in Hollywood and beyond.

Jennifer Morrison (Emma Swan): From Savior to Director and Entrepreneur

Jennifer Morrison, who anchored the series as the cynical-turned-hero Emma Swan, has significantly shifted her focus behind the camera in recent years. Morrison’s career trajectory has evolved from a leading actress in major network shows like House and Once Upon a Time to a respected director and producer, alongside her work in theater and a surprising new business venture.

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Biography and Profile: Jennifer Morrison

• Full Name: Jennifer Marie Morrison
• Born: April 12, 1979 (Age 46 in 2025)
• Birthplace: Chicago, Illinois, U.S.
• Known For: Emma Swan in Once Upon a Time, Dr. Allison Cameron in House, Winona Kirk in Star Trek (2009).
• Spouse: Gerardo Celasco (m. 2021)
• Current Focus: Directing, producing, acting, and entrepreneurship.

Morrison has spent much of late 2024 and 2025 focusing on her directorial career. She has helmed episodes for major series, including the critically acclaimed Showtime drama Yellowjackets, demonstrating her talent for shaping complex narratives.

In a surprising career move, Morrison has also ventured into the wellness space. She is the co-founder of a food company called Amia, which specifically targets individuals who suffer from migraines. This personal and professional endeavor highlights her commitment to causes outside of traditional acting roles.

On the acting front, she has been involved in theatrical productions, specifically tackling Margaret Atwood's challenging work, 'The Penelopiad,' in Chicago. Furthermore, Morrison has openly supported the idea of an Once Upon a Time reboot, suggesting she would be on board, provided the concept was fresh and well-developed.

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Ginnifer Goodwin (Snow White/Mary Margaret Blanchard): Returning to the Animated World

Ginnifer Goodwin’s portrayal of Snow White and her Storybrooke counterpart, Mary Margaret Blanchard, was a cornerstone of the show's early success, bringing warmth and earnestness to the dual role. Since leaving the series, Goodwin has successfully transitioned back into film and voice acting, securing a major role in one of Disney's most anticipated animated sequels.

Biography and Profile: Ginnifer Goodwin

• Full Name: Jennifer Michelle Goodwin (known professionally as Ginnifer Goodwin)
• Born: May 22, 1978 (Age 47 in 2025)
• Birthplace: Memphis, Tennessee, U.S.
• Known For: Snow White/Mary Margaret Blanchard in Once Upon a Time, Margene Heffman in Big Love, Judy Hopps in Zootopia.
• Spouse: Josh Dallas (m. 2014) (Her OUAT co-star)
• Current Focus: Voice acting, film, and television.

The most significant update for Goodwin’s career in 2025 is her reprisal of the role of Judy Hopps in the highly anticipated Disney sequel, Zootopia 2. This animated feature is set for release in 2025, putting Goodwin back on the big screen in a major franchise role that appeals to families worldwide. She has expressed excitement about making projects that the whole family can enjoy.

Goodwin remains deeply connected to her Storybrooke roots. She has been vocal about her willingness and desire to return for a potential Once Upon a Time reboot, stating she is "available" and would "love to go back." This enthusiasm from one of the core cast members keeps the hope alive for fans of the original series.

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Lana Parrilla (Evil Queen/Regina Mills): Comic Con Appearances and New Thrillers

Lana Parrilla’s performance as the complex and beloved Evil Queen/Regina Mills earned her a massive, dedicated following. Her character’s journey from villain to hero was one of the series' most compelling arcs. In 2025, Parrilla is balancing fan engagement with new television projects, confirming her continued presence in the fantasy and drama genres.

Biography and Profile: Lana Parrilla

• Full Name: Lana Maria Parrilla
• Born: July 15, 1977 (Age 48 in 2025)
• Birthplace: Brooklyn, New York, U.S.
• Known For: Evil Queen/Regina Mills in Once Upon a Time, Sarah Gavin in 24, Rita Castillo in Boomtown.
• Current Focus: Television series, fan conventions, and producing.

Parrilla is maintaining a strong connection with the OUAT fandom through multiple convention appearances scheduled for 2025. She is confirmed to be attending the Emerald City Comic Con (ECCC) in 2025, alongside co-stars Sean Maguire (Robin Hood) and Rebecca Mader (Wicked Witch of the West). She is also scheduled for Comic Con Brussels 2025, signaling a mini-reunion for the Storybrooke cast and a chance for fans to connect with the ‘Evil Queen’ herself.

Professionally, Parrilla continues to land significant roles in television. Her show The Rainmaker is performing well, and she is actively working on a new project titled "Synthetic." This new work suggests a move into the thriller or science fiction genre, allowing her to showcase her versatility beyond the fantasy world of Storybrooke. Her sustained success proves her enduring appeal with audiences.

Emilie de Ravin (Belle French): A Royal Return in Hallmark

Emilie de Ravin, who played the kind-hearted and bookish Belle French, provided a necessary emotional anchor for the series, especially through her tumultuous relationship with Rumplestiltskin. Her current work sees her stepping into the world of romantic drama, a perfect fit for her gentle yet strong on-screen persona.

Biography and Profile: Emilie de Ravin

• Full Name: Emilie de Ravin
• Born: December 27, 1981 (Age 43 in 2025)
• Birthplace: Mount Eliza, Victoria, Australia
• Known For: Belle French in Once Upon a Time, Claire Littleton in Lost, Irena in The Hills Have Eyes (2006).
• Partner: Eric Bilitch (2014–present)
• Current Focus: Film, particularly romance and drama.

For fans looking for Emilie de Ravin's latest work, she is set to star in a new Hallmark movie titled "The Reluctant Royal." She is co-starring with Andrew Walker in this romance film, which is expected to be released in 2025. This project aligns with the feel-good, heartwarming genre, a departure from the high-stakes drama of Lost and Once Upon a Time, but one that utilizes her compelling screen presence.

De Ravin has also recently spoken about her time on Once Upon a Time, reflecting on the beloved 'Rumbelle' pairing with Robert Carlyle and the enduring legacy of the Disney-inspired series. Her continued involvement in new film projects ensures her visibility as a key figure from the show.

The Everlasting Hope for a Once Upon a Time Reboot

The possibility of a reboot or revival remains a hot topic among fans and the cast alike. The consistent enthusiasm from the lead actresses is perhaps the strongest indicator that Storybrooke could one day reopen its borders. Both Jennifer Morrison and Ginnifer Goodwin have publicly stated their willingness to return to their iconic roles.

Morrison, in particular, has suggested that a reboot should take a new direction, perhaps focusing on a different generation or a new aspect of the fairy tale universe, rather than simply rehashing the original story. This aligns with the desire to keep the content fresh and unique, honoring the original while creating a new narrative for modern audiences.

The continued success of the cast members in diverse projects—from directing to voice acting to new thrillers—shows that the talent that drove Once Upon a Time is stronger than ever. Whether it’s a full-scale reboot, a limited series, or just more cast reunions at conventions like ECCC 2025, the magic of this ensemble cast is far from over.