Disney has cast Teagan Croft as Rapunzel and Milo Manheim as Flynn Rider in its live-action Tangled movie. Here’s everything to know about the cast, director, and why the film matters.
Disney has officially found its new Rapunzel and Flynn Rider. The studio has cast rising Australian actress Teagan Croft and Milo Manheim, best known for Disney Channel’s Zombies franchise, in the lead roles of its highly anticipated live-action Tangled adaptation.
Croft will play Rapunzel, the curious, brave, and big-hearted young woman with magical golden hair, while Manheim steps into the role of Flynn Rider, the charming outlaw whose unexpected alliance helps Rapunzel escape her tower and discover the world beyond it.
A Musical Vision Led by Michael Gracey
The live-action Tangled will be directed by Michael Gracey, whose credits include the musical hits The Greatest Showman and Better Man. Like the original animated film, the new version is expected to lean heavily into music, spectacle, and emotional storytelling.
Producing the feature is Kristin Burr, a longtime Disney collaborator who previously worked on Cruella and Freakier Friday. The screenplay was written by Jennifer Kaytin Robinson, known for Do Revenge and Thor: Love and Thunder. Lucy Kitada is serving as executive producer.
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A Careful Casting Process
Disney reportedly took its time with casting, conducting extensive searches in both the U.S. and the U.K. Finalists screen-tested in London in December, shortly before the winter holidays. According to sources, the studio was deliberate and thoughtful, aware of the emotional attachment fans have to the original film.
Croft and Manheim now take on roles previously voiced by Mandy Moore and Zachary Levi, performances that helped make Tangled a modern Disney classic and a key title in Disney Animation’s second renaissance.
Why These Roles Matter
Landing a lead role in a Disney live-action film can be career-defining. These projects often dominate the global box office and can launch actors into instant stardom. At the same time, they come with intense scrutiny—especially from fans who grew up watching Tangled on repeat and singing “I’ve Got a Dream” at home.
The original Tangled grossed $591 million worldwide and later inspired a successful Disney Channel series, cementing its place in Disney history.
About Teagan Croft and Milo Manheim
Teagan Croft is best known for playing Raven in the DC series Titans, which ran from 2018 to 2023 across DC Universe and HBO Max. She also starred in the Netflix film True Spirit, portraying real-life sailor Jessica Watson.
Milo Manheim, the son of actress Camryn Manheim, showcased his musical talent in four Zombies movies for Disney Channel. He has also appeared in the Paramount+ series School Spirits and starred as Seymour in a revival of Little Shop of Horrors.
What’s Next for Disney’s Tangled
The next major casting decision will be the villainous Mother Gothel, a role that was at one point rumored to be headed to Scarlett Johansson. With its leads now locked in, the project is expected to move forward quickly.
As Disney continues expanding its live-action slate, Tangled stands out as one of the most anticipated adaptations. With Teagan Croft and Milo Manheim stepping into these beloved roles, fans will be watching closely to see how this fairy tale comes to life once again.