The Tower Unlocked: 7 Massive Updates On Disney's Live-Action Rapunzel (Tangled) Movie, Including Cast & 2026 Filming

The long-awaited live-action adaptation of Disney’s beloved 2010 animated feature, *Tangled*, is finally moving forward, with a flurry of concrete updates emerging in late 2025. After years of speculation and intermittent development, the project is now officially in pre-production, with a director, screenwriter, and a short-list of actors for the main roles of Rapunzel and Flynn Rider (Eugene Fitzherbert) all confirmed or heavily rumored. This article, updated in December 2025, compiles the newest, freshest information directly from industry reports, revealing the creative team, casting contenders, and the ambitious production timeline that is set to bring Rapunzel's 70 feet of magical golden hair to the big screen. The project, which will be a live-action reimagining of the classic fairy tale, is expected to maintain the vibrant musical spirit of the original, a promise solidified by the choice of its director. As Disney continues its strategy of adapting its animated classics, the *Tangled* remake is one of the most highly anticipated, promising a spectacular blend of practical sets and cutting-edge visual effects to realize the magical kingdom of Corona and the iconic tower.

The Creative Team: Director, Screenwriter, and Producers

The success of any Disney live-action adaptation hinges on the vision of its creative team, and the *Tangled* live-action movie has assembled a notable lineup of talent from both the musical and blockbuster worlds.

Director: Michael Gracey

Michael Gracey has been tapped to direct the live-action *Tangled*. Gracey is best known for helming the massive musical hit *The Greatest Showman*, which grossed over $434 million worldwide and showcased his ability to blend dazzling choreography with heartfelt storytelling. His background, which also includes directing the Elton John biopic *Rocketman* and the Robbie Williams biopic *Better Man*, strongly suggests that the *Tangled* remake will be a large-scale, big-budget musical. This is a crucial detail for fans, confirming that the memorable songs from the animated film, like "I See the Light" and "When Will My Life Begin," are almost certain to be included.

Screenwriter: Jennifer Kaytin Robinson

The latest draft of the screenplay was written by Jennifer Kaytin Robinson. Robinson has a diverse and impressive resume, having directed the Netflix romantic comedy *Someone Great* and co-written the script for the Marvel Cinematic Universe film *Thor: Love and Thunder*. Her involvement suggests the script will blend the fairy tale's emotional core with a modern, witty sensibility, likely giving Rapunzel a strong, contemporary voice.

Producers: Kristin Burr and Lucy Kitada

The film is being produced by Kristin Burr and Lucy Kitada. Kristin Burr is a veteran producer at Walt Disney Pictures, known for her work on *Cruella*, which successfully reimagined a classic Disney villain. This experience bodes well for the handling of the film's antagonist, Mother Gothel.

Casting Contenders: Who Will Be Rapunzel and Flynn Rider?

The most intense speculation surrounding the film centers on casting the two main protagonists. Recent reports indicate that Disney is in the final stages of screen testing, with a short-list of young actors being put through their paces in London and potentially other locations.

Rapunzel Short-List

Disney is reportedly testing actresses who closely resemble the animated Rapunzel, focusing on a blend of acting and vocal talent. The names that have emerged as top contenders after screen tests include:

• Freya Skye: A young British actress and singer, who is considered a strong favorite by some industry insiders.
• Sarah Catherine Hook: Known for her role in the Netflix series *First Kill*.
• Teagan Croft: Best known for playing Raven in the DC Comics series *Titans*.
• Olivia-Mai Barrett: A British actress from the series *Penny on M.A.R.S.*.

The casting process is focused on finding a performer who can capture Rapunzel’s innocence, adventurous spirit, and powerful singing voice, setting the stage for the next great Disney princess.

Flynn Rider (Eugene Fitzherbert) Contenders

The role of the charming thief, Flynn Rider, is equally crucial. Reports indicate that the final stages of casting for both leads are underway.

• Milo Manheim: The actor, known for his role in Disney Channel’s *Z-O-M-B-I-E-S* franchise, has been mentioned as a top contender and has participated in screen tests. Manheim’s Disney connection and musical background make him a strong candidate to play the witty Eugene Fitzherbert.

The Mother Gothel Dilemma

The casting for the villainous Mother Gothel has also been a major talking point. Early rumors suggested that Hollywood star Scarlett Johansson was in talks for the role, but she has since dropped out. This leaves the role of the manipulative, youth-obsessed antagonist wide open, and fans are eagerly awaiting news on who will take on the iconic character originally voiced by Donna Murphy. The role requires a powerful stage presence and vocal range, making it one of the most coveted villain roles in the current Disney slate.

Production Timeline, Filming Locations, and The Hair Challenge

The live-action *Tangled* is moving out of development hell and into the pre-production phase, with major milestones now being targeted.

Expected Filming Start and Location

While official dates are subject to change, the most recent and reliable industry reports suggest that the live-action *Tangled* is expected to begin principal photography in June 2026. The primary filming location is reportedly set to be Spain, with potential additional shooting in the UK. A June 2026 start date means a potential theatrical release would likely fall in late 2027 or early 2028, positioning it as a major tentpole for Walt Disney Pictures.

The Technical Challenge of Rapunzel's Hair

One of the biggest questions surrounding the adaptation is how director Michael Gracey will tackle the technical challenge of Rapunzel’s 70 feet of magical, glowing golden hair. In the original 2010 animated film, the hair itself was a character, moving with fluid grace and acting as a central plot device, from a rope to a healing tool.

Industry speculation suggests that the production will rely on a combination of practical effects—likely using elaborate wigs and physical ropes for close-up shots and interactions—and highly advanced CGI for the more magical, dynamic sequences, such as when the hair glows or is used to swing across chasms. The visual effects team will have to work closely with the director and the actress playing Rapunzel to ensure the hair feels like a tangible, heavy, and realistic element, not simply a cartoon prop.

The director's choice to maintain the film’s musical roots, combined with a script by a writer known for her sharp dialogue, positions the live-action *Tangled* to be a major cinematic event. With the casting process in its final stages and a clear production window in sight, the wait to see Rapunzel’s tower and the kingdom of Corona brought to life is almost over.

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