Disney’s live-action machine isn’t slowing down anytime soon.
The studio just wrapped secret screen tests in London for its upcoming Tangled adaptation, and the list of contenders reveals who Hollywood thinks could be its next big stars.
Multiple young actors competed for the coveted roles of Rapunzel and Flynn Rider last week, with chemistry readings determining who might bring the beloved 2010 animated classic back to life.
Sources indicate decisions could come quickly, with production eyeing a June start date in the UK.
Who’s Testing for Rapunzel?
Disney reportedly screen-tested several rising actresses for the role of the magical-haired princess.
Freya Skye, who made her feature debut in Disney’s Zombies 4: Dawn of the Vampires earlier this year, was among those vying for Rapunzel. The young performer already has experience within Disney’s musical universe, giving her potential familiarity with the studio’s expectations.
Sarah Catherine Hook also tested for the part. Hook recently appeared in the latest season of HBO’s hit series White Lotus, showcasing her dramatic range in one of television’s most acclaimed shows.
Australian actress Teagan Croft entered the competition as well. Perhaps best known for playing Raven in DC’s Titans series, Croft brings superhero credibility and action experience that could translate well to Rapunzel’s more adventurous moments.
Olivia-Mai Barrett, who appears on Apple TV+’s sci-fi series Invasion, rounded out the reported list of actresses testing for Disney’s famous princess.
The One Who Got Away
One name notably absent from testing: Lola Tung.
Sources indicate The Summer I Turned Pretty headliner was initially in the mix but couldn’t participate in screen tests due to scheduling conflicts. The actress may be contractually obligated for a film continuation of the popular series, preventing her from pursuing Rapunzel.
Flynn Rider Contenders Bring Musical Chops
Disney’s search for Flynn Rider—the cocky outlaw thief with hidden depths—focused heavily on actors with proven musical abilities.
Milo Manheim, male lead of Disney’s successful Zombies franchise, tested for the role. His extensive experience with Disney’s musical format and built-in fan base could make him a frontrunner for bringing Flynn’s charm and vocals to life.
Charlie Gillespie also competed for Flynn. His credits range from this year’s comedy Splitsville to Netflix’s musical series Julie and the Phantoms, demonstrating both comedic timing and singing ability—two essential ingredients for Flynn Rider.
Scottish actor Gilli Jones was another name testing for the male lead, though less information about his background has emerged publicly.
Both Manheim and Gillespie have showcased musical talent throughout their respective careers, making them natural fits for a role originally voiced by Zachary Levi in the 2010 film.
Mother Gothel Loses Scarlett Johansson
The production hit a significant snag with its villain casting.
Scarlett Johansson was previously attached to play Mother Gothel, the manipulative witch who imprisons Rapunzel to exploit her magical hair for eternal youth. However, the A-list actress is no longer involved with the project.
Scheduling conflicts forced Johansson’s departure. She’ll be shooting an Exorcist reboot and The Batman Part II next year, creating an impossible timeline for Tangled‘s June production start.
Disney now faces the challenge of finding another high-profile actress capable of bringing depth and menace to one of animation’s most psychologically complex villains.
Musical Direction Under Michael Gracey
Michael Gracey will direct the live-action adaptation, bringing serious musical credentials to the project.
Gracey’s resume includes The Greatest Showman and Better Man, both musical biopics that showcased his ability to blend spectacular visuals with memorable song-and-dance numbers.
Like the original animated film, this version will feature big musical elements—a crucial consideration given that Tangled‘s soundtrack included beloved songs like “I See the Light” and “When Will My Life Begin.”
Gracey’s track record suggests Disney wants spectacle and emotional resonance in equal measure for this adaptation.
Production Timeline and Disney’s Live-Action Strategy
Disney aims to begin filming in the UK this June, though scheduling remains flexible depending on final casting decisions.
Sources suggest announcements could come “sooner than later,” indicating Disney wants to lock down its leads and move quickly into pre-production.
Tangled joins Disney’s extensive slate of live-action remakes, following successful reimaginings like The Little Mermaid, Aladdin, and Beauty and the Beast. The 2010 original is now considered a modern classic and part of Disney Animation’s second renaissance, making this adaptation particularly high-stakes.
The original film featured Mandy Moore and Zachary Levi voicing Rapunzel and Flynn Rider respectively, creating performances that set a high bar for whoever inherits these roles in live-action form.
With screen tests complete and chemistry readings wrapped, Disney’s casting team now faces the challenge of selecting actors who can carry a major musical franchise while appealing to both nostalgic millennials and younger audiences discovering Rapunzel’s story for the first time.