Films & Entertainment

Live-Action ‘Tangled’: Disney’s Rapunzel Choice (And Other Contenders) Revealed

Disney’s top choice for Rapunzel in its upcoming live-action remake of Tangled has been revealed, sparking excitement and debate among fans.

Live-action remakes have become a defining feature of Disney’s modern era at the box office, but they’ve also proven highly divisive among audiences and critics.

Lily James as Cinderella
Credit: Disney

While some applaud the updated visuals and fresh takes on classic stories, others criticize them as unnecessary rehashes that lack the charm and emotional resonance of the originals. Films like Aladdin (2019) and Beauty and the Beast (2017) struck a chord with nostalgic fans, yet drew backlash for changes to beloved characters or perceived over-reliance on CGI.

Undeterred, Disney is forging ahead with several more live-action projects, including a long-awaited Tangled remake. Officially confirmed in late 2024, the film will feature The Greatest Showman (2017) director Michael Gracey and I Know What You Did Last Summer (2025) co-writer Jennifer Kaytin Robinson.

Promotional Image for 'Tangled' featuring Flynn Rider and Rapunzel in front of floating lanterns
Credit: Disney

Should it remain totally faithful to the 2010 animated original, this will follow Rapunzel’s journey with Flynn Rider to escape her tower (and Mother Gothel) and experience the magical “Floating Lights.”

Will Florence Pugh Play Rapunzel?

Florence Pugh has emerged as Disney’s frontrunner for the role of Rapunzel. Insider Daniel Richtman (via Toonado.com) recently reaffirmed that Pugh remains the top choice.

Florence Pugh with a leather jacket seated indoors, looking directly at the camera with an expression that conveys a mix of confidence and friendliness.
Credit: Marvel Studios

Having built a strong relationship with Disney through her role as Yelena Belova in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, Pugh has the acting prowess and star power to bring Rapunzel to life. Fans have long supported her for the role, noting her resemblance to the character and her ability to capture Rapunzel’s adventurous spirit.

Who Else Could Play Rapunzel?

Another name gaining traction online is Sabrina Carpenter. Known for her music career and acting roles, Carpenter’s history with Disney includes starring as Maya Hart in Girl Meets World and voicing Princess Vivian in Sofia the First.

Sabrina Carpenter on Santa's lap in 'A Nonsense Christmas with Sabrina Carpenter'
Credit: Netflix

Her singing talent and physical likeness to Rapunzel make her a strong contender, with even Mandy Moore—the original voice of the lost princess—endorsing her as a candidate.

Avantika, who starred in the musical adaptation of Mean Girls (2024), is another rumored possibility. Fans on social media have championed her for the role, citing her bubbly persona and strong screen presence in the otherwise pretty mediocre Mean Girls remake as a perfect fit for the character.

Avantika as Karen in 'Mean Girls'
Credit: Paramount Pictures

Who Could Play Mother Gothel?

Speculation has also surrounded the role of the villainous Mother Gothel. Kathryn Hahn and Jennifer Lopez (yes, really) are reportedly being considered. Both actresses boast unique qualities that could shape the character in fresh and exciting ways (although we’re firmly in the camp that believes Hahn was born for the role).

Who would you like to see play Rapunzel and other characters in Disney’s Tangled remake?

Chloe James

Chloë is a theme park addict and self-proclaimed novelty hunter. She's obsessed with all things Star Wars, loves roller coasters (but hates Pixar Pal-A-Round), and lives for Disney's next Muppets project.

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