Disney has officially found its golden pair for one of its most anticipated live-action adaptations. On January 7, 2026, Walt Disney Pictures announced that Australian actress Teagan Croft will star as Rapunzel, while Milo Manheim takes on the role of charming rogue Flynn Rider in the live-action reimagining of Tangled. This marks a major milestone in the highly talked-about project that will bring the beloved animated characters to the big screen for the very first time, with the film exclusively heading to theaters.
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Teagan Croft: The Rising Star as Rapunzel
Teagan Croft, at age 21, brings international recognition and compelling screen presence to the role of Rapunzel. The Australian actress first gained attention in her home country before breaking into international projects that caught the eye of major studios. She earned widespread acclaim for her role as Rachel Roth, also known as Raven, in the DC Universe series Titans, showcasing her ability to portray complex, emotionally layered characters with depth and authenticity.
Beyond her superhero work, Croft has demonstrated her range in Netflix’s True Spirit, where she portrayed real-life Australian sailor Jessica Watson, who attempted solo global circumnavigation at just 16 years old. This performance highlighted her capability to anchor dramatic narratives with genuine emotion. Croft’s casting as Rapunzel comes after a rigorous selection process where she impressed casting directors among notable contenders, making her the perfect choice to embody the curious and plucky princess with her iconic magical hair.
Milo Manheim: Bringing Flynn Rider to Life
Milo Manheim, aged 24, already commands significant recognition among Disney fans worldwide. The multi-talented performer rose to fame starring as Zed in the long-running Zombies franchise on Disney Channel, establishing himself as a bankable star with proven appeal to Disney audiences. Beyond his musical film work, Manheim showcased his versatility by competing on Season 27 of Dancing with the Stars in 2018, finishing in second place and impressing audiences with his athletic movements and stage presence.
As the son of Emmy and Golden Globe-winning actress Camryn Manheim, Milo carries the legacy of exceptional talent in his family. His charismatic personality and charming demeanor make him ideally suited to portray Flynn Rider, the witty, quick-thinking outlaw thief who captures Rapunzel’s heart and helps her escape her tower prison. Manheim’s comedic timing and ability to balance humor with genuine emotion will bring the beloved rogue to vibrant life on screen.
Production Details and Creative Vision
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Director | Michael Gracey (The Greatest Showman) |
| Screenwriter | Jennifer Kaytin Robinson |
| Production Studio | Walt Disney Pictures |
| Release Format | Theatrical exclusive |
| Original Film Release | 2010 (Academy Award-nominated) |
| Lead Cast | Teagan Croft, Milo Manheim |
| Musical Elements | Expected to include musical numbers |
| Filming Timeline | Anticipated to begin later in 2026 |
Michael Gracey, the visionary director behind acclaimed musical biopics The Greatest Showman and Better Man, will helm this ambitious project. The original animated Tangled earned an Academy Award nomination and grossed over $591 million worldwide, establishing itself as a modern classic. Jennifer Kaytin Robinson has penned the screenplay, bringing her creative vision to this beloved story for a new generation of audiences.
The Original Legacy and What’s New
| Original Voice Cast | Live-Action Casting |
|---|---|
| Mandy Moore (Rapunzel) | Teagan Croft |
| Zachary Levi (Flynn Rider) | Milo Manheim |
| Donna Murphy (Mother Gothel) | Role still being cast |
The original 2010 animated film established a cultural phenomenon, spawning the 2012 short film Tangled Ever After and the remarkably successful Disney Channel series Rapunzel’s Tangled Adventure. Disney’s recent string of live-action adaptations—including Beauty and the Beast, Aladdin, Mulan, The Little Mermaid, and the billion-dollar grossing Lilo & Stitch—demonstrates the studio’s commitment to bringing animated classics to life with contemporary casting and production values.
Theatrical Exclusivity
Unlike some recent Disney releases that have found their way to streaming platforms, the live-action Tangled will have a theatrical-exclusive release, ensuring audiences experience this magical reimagining on the big screen.
This decision underscores Disney’s confidence in the project and recognizes the significance of this beloved story deserving a theatrical presentation where viewers can fully immerse themselves in the grandeur of Rapunzel’s world.
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FAQs
When will the live-action Tangled movie be released?
Disney has not yet announced an official release date for the live-action Tangled. However, filming is anticipated to begin later in 2026, which could potentially set the stage for a 2027 theatrical debut.
Who are the main cast members for live-action Tangled?
Teagan Croft will play Rapunzel, and Milo Manheim will portray Flynn Rider. The role of Mother Gothel, the main villain, is still being cast, with Scarlett Johansson reportedly having exited the project.
Who is directing the live-action Tangled film?
Michael Gracey, known for directing The Greatest Showman and Better Man, is directing the live-action adaptation. Jennifer Kaytin Robinson wrote the screenplay based on the beloved animated original.
Will the live-action Tangled include musical numbers like the original?
Yes, the live-action Tangled is expected to incorporate musical elements from the original animated film, though specific details about which songs will be included have not been officially announced.
Is Tangled going directly to streaming or releasing in theaters?
The live-action Tangled is coming exclusively to theaters. Disney has confirmed a theatrical-only release, ensuring audiences can experience this reimagining of the beloved classic on the big screen.
