Los Angeles / New York, January 8, 2026 — Walt Disney Pictures has formally unveiled its lead cast for the highly anticipated live-action adaptation of the animated classic Tangled, naming Teagan Croft as Rapunzel and Milo Manheim as Flynn Rider. The announcement, confirmed by Disney and multiple entertainment outlets Wednesday, signals a major step forward in production for the forthcoming feature film.
The decision ends months of speculation surrounding the casting of the beloved fairy-tale characters from the 2010 animated release — itself a box office success that grossed nearly $600 million worldwide.
Australian actress Teagan Croft, 21, best known for her portrayal of Rachel “Raven” Roth in the superhero series Titans on HBO Max, will take on the role of Rapunzel, the spirited princess with magical long hair who ventures beyond her isolated tower to discover the world. Croft’s casting highlights Disney’s continued interest in blending emerging talent with established franchises.
Joining her is 24-year-old American actor Milo Manheim as Flynn Rider, the roguish thief who becomes Rapunzel’s companion and love interest. Manheim, a familiar face to Disney audiences from the Zombies musical film franchise and various television projects, has also showcased his range in stage performances and television appearances.
Manheim’s casting follows an extensive audition process, with industry sources noting that Disney selected its leads after chemistry reads and screen tests conducted in late 2025 in London.
Creative Team and Production Background
The live-action Tangled will be helmed by director Michael Gracey, known for helming the musical-themed film The Greatest Showman. The screenplay is written by Jennifer Kaytin Robinson, whose previous credits include Do Revenge. Veteran producer Kristin Burr is attached to the project, with Disney’s in-house team overseeing the adaptation from screen to set.
This announcement continues Disney’s broader strategy of transforming its animated catalog into live-action blockbusters. Previous adaptations such as Beauty and the Beast, Aladdin, The Little Mermaid, and Lilo & Stitch have performed strongly at the global box office, with Lilo & Stitch surpassing the $1 billion mark last year.
While Disney has not yet revealed an official release date for the Tangled remake, insiders suggest that pre-production activities are underway, with filming expected to begin later in 2026. Distribution plans currently aim for a theatrical release, maintaining the studio’s commitment to big-screen experiences following a resurgence of moviegoing in key markets worldwide.
Reaction and Wider Context
Industry response to the casting news has been mixed but largely positive, with many fans and critics praising Disney’s choice to pair Croft and Manheim — two performers with both acting and musical backgrounds — in roles that demand both dramatic depth and on-screen chemistry. Crowds on social media platforms have responded enthusiastically to clips and images shared after the announcement, with fans highlighting Manheim’s charisma and Croft’s versatility.
Entertainment analysts suggest that the casting also reflects a broader trend in Hollywood, where studios are increasingly seeking actors with established fan followings from streaming platforms and young adult franchises to lead high-profile adaptations. At the same time, the selection of Croft and Manheim positions Tangled as a generational bridge, appealing to audiences familiar with the original animated film and younger viewers drawn to contemporary stars.
Despite fan excitement, some observers note that live-action remakes face inherent challenges. Earlier Disney projects such as Snow White encountered mixed box office returns, prompting discussions within the industry about balancing nostalgia with creative innovation. However, the global success of recent adaptations like Lilo & Stitch offers encouragement that Tangled could follow a positive trajectory when it debuts.
Looking Ahead
As production ramps up, audiences and industry watchers alike will be paying close attention to casting announcements for supporting roles, including the iconic Mother Gothel. Rumors have circulated regarding potential candidates for the part, but Disney has yet to confirm any additional leads.
Live-action Tangled represents not only a reinvention of a beloved story but also a continuation of Disney’s live-action strategy in a competitive global entertainment landscape. With its combination of fresh casting, experienced creative leadership, and a built-in fan base, the project is poised to be one of the studio’s standout releases in the coming years.
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