Fez — Disney has officially announced the lead cast for its upcoming live-action adaptation of Tangled, with Australian actress Teagan Croft set to play Rapunzel and Disney regular Milo Manheim cast as Flynn Rider.
The studio revealed the news on January 7, confirming months of speculation around the project, which is based on the 2010 animated film that reimagined the classic Grimm fairy tale.
The original movie starred Mandy Moore and Zachary Levi in the lead voice roles and went on to become one of Disney’s most successful animated releases of the decade.
From animation to live action
Croft is best known for her role as Rachel Roth, also known as “White Raven,” in the DC series “Titans,” where she appeared from 2018 to 2023. Her casting marks her first leading role in a major Disney live-action remake, placing her at the center of a franchise with a built-in global fan base.
Manheim, meanwhile, has been a familiar face in Disney productions for years. He rose to prominence playing Zed in the “Zombies” film series and later expanded into musical theater and streaming projects. Following the announcement, Manheim shared his reaction on social media, promising to “do him justice.”
Creative team and production timeline
The live-action “Tangled” will be directed by Michael Gracey, known for helming The Greatest Showman. Industry reports indicate that the film will retain strong musical elements, echoing the tone and structure of the animated original.
Producer Kristin Burr, who previously worked on “Cruella,” is attached to the project, with a script by Jennifer Kaytin Robinson. Development on the film was first announced in late 2024, briefly paused in 2025, and later resumed with screen tests reportedly held in London.
Revisiting a modern Disney classic
Released in 2010, “Tangled” earned more than $590 million worldwide and became a cornerstone of Disney’s modern animation era. Its mix of humor, romance, and music helped redefine the studio’s approach to fairy-tale storytelling for a new generation.
