Walt Disney Studios has officially announced the lead actors for its highly anticipated live-action adaptation of the beloved animated film "Tangled." The studio revealed that Teagan Croft will take on the role of the long-haired heroine Rapunzel, while Milo Manheim has been cast as the charming rogue Flynn Rider.
New Faces for a Classic Tale
The casting news, confirmed on January 07, 2026, marks a significant step forward for the project. The announcement was made by Disney Entertainment, with co-chairman Alan Bergman overseeing the studio's upcoming slate. Bergman has previously presented Disney's vision at major industry events like CinemaCon, signaling the company's continued investment in reimagining its animated classics for a new generation.
Croft, best known for her role as Raven in the series "Titans," brings a blend of youthful energy and acting depth to the role of the spirited princess. Manheim, who gained fame from the "Zombies" franchise and "School Spirits," is expected to embody the wit and charisma of the adventurous thief, Flynn Rider.
Disney's Live-Action Strategy Continues
This new "Tangled" film joins a long line of successful live-action remakes from Disney, a strategy that has included hits like "The Little Mermaid" and "Beauty and the Beast." The project aims to capture the magic, humour, and heart of the original 2010 animated feature while introducing the story through a fresh, real-world lens.
While a specific release date has not been set, the announcement confirms the film is in active development for a future release. Fans can expect the production to honour the original's iconic songs and storyline while potentially exploring new dimensions of the characters made famous by Mandy Moore and Zachary Levi in the animated version.
What This Means for Fans
The announcement has generated considerable excitement among Disney fans and film enthusiasts. Casting relatively young actors suggests Disney is aiming to connect with both the original film's audience, who have grown up, and a new wave of younger viewers. The success of this casting will hinge on the chemistry between Croft and Manheim, who must recreate the dynamic and beloved partnership of Rapunzel and Flynn.
As with all major Disney live-action projects, further announcements regarding the director, supporting cast, and production timeline are expected in the coming months. This move solidifies Disney's commitment to its vault of animated classics as a cornerstone of its film production strategy for years to come.
