The 7 Actresses Rumored To Play Rapunzel In Disney's Live-Action Tangled: A Deep Dive Into The Cast Rumors

Despite a lack of official announcements from Disney, the buzz surrounding the live-action adaptation of the beloved 2010 animated hit *Tangled* has reached a fever pitch, with casting rumors dominating social media and industry reports as of December 11, 2025. This project, which aims to bring the magical tale of Rapunzel, Flynn Rider, and the floating lanterns to life, is reportedly moving forward under the direction of a celebrated filmmaker, and a clear list of top candidates for the lead roles has emerged, signaling that an official announcement could be closer than fans think. The film is one of the most anticipated live-action remakes, following the success of others in the Disney canon, and the pressure is on to find actors who can live up to the iconic performances of the original voice cast, Mandy Moore and Zachary Levi. The live-action *Tangled* remake has been in various stages of development for several years, with reports initially suggesting the project might have been shelved after the mixed reception and box office performance of other live-action adaptations, notably *Snow White*. However, recent, persistent leaks and director hints confirm that the film is very much alive and actively moving into the pre-production phase, with the core creative team already in place. The casting process, especially for the role of Rapunzel, is proving to be a meticulous search for a star who possesses both the vocal talent and the youthful innocence required for the princess trapped in her tower.

The Creative Team Behind the Live-Action Tangled

While the cast remains a mystery, the key figures steering the project have been widely reported, lending significant credibility to the production's progress. The director attached to the *Tangled* live-action film is Michael Gracey. Gracey is best known for helming the smash-hit musical *The Greatest Showman*, a factor that has excited fans who expect the new *Tangled* to retain its musical elements. His experience with large-scale, visually spectacular, and emotionally driven musical numbers makes him an ideal choice to tackle the complexity of Rapunzel's story and the iconic "I See the Light" sequence. The screenplay is reportedly being written by Jennifer Kaytin Robinson. Robinson's previous work includes writing and directing the Netflix dark comedy *Do Revenge* and co-writing *Thor: Love and Thunder*, suggesting a script that could blend the fairy tale's heart with modern, sharp wit. This combination of Gracey’s musical flair and Robinson’s contemporary writing style hints at a fresh take on the classic story originally directed by Nathan Greno and Byron Howard.

The Top Candidates for Rapunzel: A Seven-Way Race

The central question surrounding the *Tangled* remake is, "Who will play Rapunzel?" The actress chosen must embody the character's wide-eyed optimism, adventurous spirit, and, crucially, possess strong singing abilities to honor the original songs. The search has reportedly narrowed down to a handful of young stars, with several names consistently appearing in industry reports and fan-castings.

1. Sadie Sink

Sadie Sink, famous for her role as Max Mayfield in Netflix's *Stranger Things*, is consistently cited as a top contender for the role. Her profile has risen dramatically, and her ability to handle intense, emotional scenes makes her a compelling choice for the princess who has been isolated for 18 years. Her casting would appeal to a massive, built-in audience of young adults.

2. Mckenna Grace

Another actress frequently mentioned is Mckenna Grace, a talented young performer with an extensive resume that includes roles in *Ghostbusters: Afterlife* and *The Handmaid's Tale*. Grace has also shown vocal talent, and her look is often cited by fans as perfectly matching the animated Rapunzel. She is rumored to be a favorite of the studio for her acting range and youthful energy.

3. Emma Myers

Emma Myers, who gained significant recognition as Enid Sinclair in the Netflix series *Wednesday*, is also rumored to be in the running. Her charm and ability to play a character with a vibrant, optimistic personality make her a strong candidate to capture Rapunzel's light.

4. Isabel May

Isabel May, known for her leading role in the *Yellowstone* prequel *1883*, is another name that has surfaced in casting conversations. Her ability to portray a strong, determined character in a period setting could translate well to the adventurous side of Rapunzel.

5. Freya Skye

A more recent and intriguing rumor involves Freya Skye, an actress from *Zombies 4*. The speculation intensified after director Michael Gracey reportedly followed her on social media, a move often interpreted as a subtle casting hint in the industry. Skye's background in a Disney-related musical project could be exactly what the studio is looking for.

6. Florence Pugh

While perhaps a slightly older candidate than some others, Florence Pugh has been a long-time fan favorite. Her incredible acting chops and surprisingly powerful singing voice—showcased in various performances—make her a dream choice for many, even if recent reports focus on younger actresses.

7. Sabrina Carpenter

Pop star and actress Sabrina Carpenter is another name frequently brought up in fan discussions. Her massive popularity, established musical career, and experience in acting roles make her a natural fit for a Disney princess role that requires both star power and vocal prowess.

The Search for Flynn Rider and Mother Gothel

Beyond Rapunzel, the casting of the two other main characters—the charming thief Flynn Rider (Eugene Fitzherbert) and the manipulative villain Mother Gothel—is equally critical to the film’s success. The original voice actors, Zachary Levi and Donna Murphy, set a high bar for chemistry and theatricality.

Flynn Rider / Eugene Fitzherbert

The current frontrunner for the role of Flynn Rider is rumored to be Mason Thames. Thames, known for his role in *The Black Phone*, has been linked to the project, particularly in tandem with Mckenna Grace for Rapunzel. The idea of pairing two rising young stars would give the film a fresh, new dynamic, moving away from the fan-casting of established, older actors. The chemistry between Rapunzel and Flynn is the heart of the story, making this a pivotal casting decision.

Mother Gothel

The most persistent and high-profile rumor for the villainous Mother Gothel is the casting of Academy Award-nominated actress Scarlett Johansson. Johansson has reportedly addressed the rumors, fueling the speculation that she is in talks for the role. Casting a major star like Johansson would give the villain a strong, grounded presence and undeniable star power, much like Angelina Jolie's turn as Maleficent. Her involvement would instantly elevate the film's profile and provide the necessary gravitas for the complex antagonist who keeps Rapunzel locked away in the tower.

What's Next for the Tangled Live-Action Remake?

As of late 2025, the *Tangled* live-action project is clearly past the early development stage, with a director and writer attached and a clear list of top casting candidates circulating. The heavy volume of specific rumors, particularly around Michael Gracey and the Rapunzel contenders like Sadie Sink, Mckenna Grace, and Freya Skye, suggests that the final casting decision is imminent. Fans are anxiously awaiting the official word from Disney, which will not only confirm the actors who will bring Rapunzel, Flynn Rider, and Mother Gothel to life but also provide a clearer picture of the production timeline and a potential release window. Until then, the lively debate and dissection of every casting hint continue, proving that the magic of the floating lanterns and Rapunzel’s golden hair still holds a powerful place in the hearts of Disney fans worldwide. The eventual cast will undoubtedly define this new adaptation for a generation.