Get ready to let down your hair and dive into the enchanting world of Disney’s live-action Tangled—but here’s where it gets exciting: the race to crown the next Rapunzel is on, and the contenders are as dazzling as her magical locks. Who will step into the iconic role? Walt Disney Pictures is spinning a new web for its 2010 animated classic, and the search for its leading stars has fans buzzing with anticipation. But this is the part most people miss: the studio has already quietly conducted screen tests and chemistry readings in London, narrowing down a list of rising talents who could become Hollywood’s next big names.
The coveted role of Rapunzel, the curious and fearless princess-in-waiting with hair that’s anything but ordinary, has drawn a lineup of promising actresses. Among them are Freya Skye, who made waves in Disney’s Zombies 4: Dawn of the Vampires; Sarah Catherine Hook, fresh off her stint in The White Lotus; Teagan Croft, best known as Raven in DC’s Titans; and Olivia-Mai Barrett, a standout from Apple TV+’s Invasion. Each brings a unique spark, but only one will climb that tower. And here’s a twist: Lola Tung, the breakout star of The Summer I Turned Pretty, was in the running but may have bowed out due to scheduling conflicts—leaving fans to wonder what could have been.
Now, let’s talk Flynn Rider, the charming outlaw with a heart of gold. Milo Manheim, the leading man of Disney’s Zombies franchise, and Charlie Gillespie, whose credits span Splitsville to Julie and the Phantoms, are both in the mix. Both have proven their musical chops, a must for this song-filled adventure. Adding to the intrigue is Gilli Jones, a Scottish talent who’s also tested for the role. But here’s the controversial question: Can anyone truly replace Zachary Levi’s unforgettable charm?
And let’s not forget Mother Gothel, the villainous witch who keeps Rapunzel locked away. Originally set to be played by Scarlett Johansson, the role is now up for grabs due to her commitments to The Exorcist reboot and The Batman Part II. Who will step into her wicked shoes? Is Disney aiming for a fresh face or a seasoned star?
Directed by Michael Gracey, the mastermind behind The Greatest Showman, this live-action adaptation promises to be a musical extravaganza. With filming slated to begin in the UK this June—though dates could shift depending on casting—the clock is ticking. Will this new Tangled capture the magic of the original, or will it weave a completely new spell?
One thing’s for sure: this project is already a fairy tale in the making. But here’s where we want to hear from you: Who’s your top pick for Rapunzel and Flynn Rider? And do you think Disney can pull off another modern classic? Let the debate begin!
