Disney’s live-action remake of Tangled, the beloved 2010 animated film, is officially moving forward, with rising star Francesca Amewudah-Rivers cast as Rapunzel. The announcement has sparked excitement and curiosity among fans, marking a significant step in Disney’s ongoing effort to reimagine its animated classics. Directed by Michael Gracey, known for The Greatest Showman, the film promises to bring a fresh perspective to the fairy tale of Rapunzel, loosely based on the Brothers Grimm story. With production set to begin in late 2025 and a tentative release slated for 2027, the casting of Amewudah-Rivers has already ignited discussions about representation, talent, and the future of Disney’s live-action adaptations.

Amewudah-Rivers, a British actress celebrated for her stage work in Romeo and Juliet and her breakout role in the HBO series I May Destroy You, brings a dynamic presence to the role of Rapunzel. Her casting follows months of speculation about who would portray the princess with magical, golden hair. Previous rumors linked high-profile names like Florence Pugh, Sabrina Carpenter, and Taylor Swift to the role, but Disney’s decision to cast Amewudah-Rivers signals a commitment to spotlighting emerging talent. Fans on platforms like X have praised her vocal abilities and expressive range, citing her theater background as a perfect fit for a musical role that demands both acting and singing prowess.

The Tangled remake comes at a pivotal moment for Disney, which has faced mixed reactions to its live-action adaptations. The recent underperformance of Snow White, which grossed $145.6 million against a $250 million budget, led Disney to pause development on Tangled earlier this year. However, the studio has since resumed pre-production, buoyed by renewed confidence in Gracey’s vision and the success of other projects like Mufasa: The Lion King. The film is expected to retain the original’s vibrant energy, with Alan Menken and Glenn Slater returning to adapt their Oscar-nominated songs, including “When Will My Life Begin” and “I See the Light.” There’s also buzz about a potential cameo from Mandy Moore, who voiced Rapunzel in the animated film.

While Amewudah-Rivers’ casting has been met with enthusiasm, it has also sparked some debate. The original Tangled featured Rapunzel as a fair-skinned, blonde princess, and some fans have questioned whether the remake will alter the character’s appearance to align with the actress’s heritage. Disney has not confirmed details about the film’s aesthetic, but the studio’s recent adaptations, such as The Little Mermaid with Halle Bailey, suggest a willingness to embrace colorblind casting to prioritize talent over strict adherence to source material. Supporters argue that Amewudah-Rivers’ charisma and skill make her an ideal Rapunzel, regardless of physical differences from the animated version.

The broader cast for Tangled remains unconfirmed, though rumors persist about other roles. Kathryn Hahn is reportedly in talks to play Mother Gothel, the manipulative villain, while names like Zac Efron and Timothée Chalamet have surfaced for Flynn Rider, the charming thief who aids Rapunzel’s escape from her tower. Disney’s casting process has been notably rigorous, with thousands of auditions conducted to ensure a balance of star power and authenticity. The film’s narrative is expected to follow the original’s plot—Rapunzel’s journey to discover her true identity and see the floating lanterns—while incorporating modern sensibilities to appeal to today’s audiences.

The Tangled remake is part of Disney’s broader slate of live-action projects, including Lilo & Stitch in May 2025 and Moana in July 2026. Despite setbacks like Snow White, Disney remains committed to these adaptations, banking on nostalgia and innovation to draw audiences. The pause on Tangled earlier this year, attributed to Snow White’s box office struggles, raised concerns about the remake’s viability, but Disney’s decision to move forward reflects confidence in the project’s potential. Fans are particularly eager to see how Gracey, known for his visually stunning storytelling, will bring the kingdom of Corona to life.

As anticipation builds, Amewudah-Rivers’ casting stands as a bold choice, blending fresh talent with Disney’s storied legacy. Her portrayal of Rapunzel is poised to redefine the princess for a new generation, sparking conversations about diversity and creativity in Hollywood. Whether the film recaptures the magic of the 2010 original or charts a new path, one thing is certain: Rapunzel’s live-action adventure will be a defining moment for Disney’s ongoing fairy-tale renaissance.