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Disney narrows Rapunzel shortlist as live-action remake moves forward
Disney appears to be quietly pushing ahead with a live-action adaptation of Tangled, and casting rumors are heating up. Despite earlier concerns that the studio might shelve the project after the tepid box-office response to Snow White, multiple outlets report that internal discussions continue and a shortlist of four young actresses has emerged as potential contenders for Rapunzel.
The names circulating from industry sources are Sadie Sink (best known for Stranger Things), McKenna Grace (recently seen in Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire), Emma Myers (Wednesday), and Isabel May — all rising performers with strong fan followings and some franchise experience. According to Nexus Point News, Sadie Sink has been the most frequently mentioned of the quartet, with several independent sources linking her to the project. It’s important to note that studio conversations don’t always equal final casting, and there’s no official confirmation that any of the actresses have auditioned yet.
Why these choices make sense
Each option brings a different energy. Sadie Sink offers dramatic intensity and a growing profile in genre cinema and TV; McKenna Grace brings proven box-office familiarity as a young leading player; Emma Myers has cultivated a devoted fanbase from her breakout TV role; and Isabel May represents a fresh face who could embody Rapunzel’s youthful curiosity. Choosing among them will be a balancing act between star power, box-office viability, and who can deliver a musical, emotionally grounded performance.
Director and script — what we know
Reports earlier tied Baz Luhrmann to the film, but The Hollywood Reporter states that Michael Gracey — the director of The Greatest Showman — remains attached. Gracey’s experience with theatrical, music-infused storytelling could shape Tangled into a vivid, stylized fairy-tale world rather than a straight-forward remake. The latest draft of the screenplay is credited to Jennifer Kaytin Robinson, known for fresh takes on genre material, which suggests Disney may be aiming for a modernized but faithful retelling.
There was also recent buzz that Scarlett Johansson had been in talks to play Mother Gothel, but that reportedly fell through due to scheduling conflicts and other commitments. As with casting in general, such early attachments are fluid until contracts are signed.
Context: Disney’s live-action strategy and fan expectations
Tangled originally premiered as one of Disney’s modern animation successes — a playful, music-filled reimagining of the Rapunzel fairy tale. The live-action trend has delivered hits and misses for the studio, from commercial powerhouses to lukewarm receptions. Industry observers see Tangled as part of Disney’s larger strategy to harness nostalgia while appealing to new audiences, but the studio is likely cautious after Snow White’s performance.
Fans are divided: some want fidelity to the beloved 2010 animated film and its soundtrack, while others hope a live-action Rapunzel will deepen character motivations and take creative risks. There’s also the logistical challenge of translating the iconic long hair and its magical properties into practical effects and performance without slipping into pastiche.
"A live-action Tangled could be a moment to blend spectacle with heart — if handled by a director who understands musical storytelling," says film critic Anna Kovacs. "Choosing the right Rapunzel will signal whether Disney aims for a faithful tribute or a reimagined origin story."
Trivia and behind-the-scenes tidbits: the original Tangled drew inspiration from classic versions of the Rapunzel legend but leaned into comedy and modern romance. Michael Gracey’s background suggests a possible emphasis on music and choreographed set pieces, which would align with Disney’s interest in event filmmaking.
No release date has been announced. For now, the casting chatter and creative attachments offer a peek into how Disney might reshape another animated classic for the live-action era.
A final note: whether Disney opts for an established name or a breakout talent, expectations will be high — not only for a charming lead, but for a version of Rapunzel that honors the original’s warmth while feeling contemporary and cinematic.
Comments
bioNix
Is this even true? Scarlett rumor dead already? Casting pics sound plausible but Disney tends to play it safe, so meh. If Gracey leans heavy on music, could work tho
atomwave
wait Sadie Sink?? thatd be wild... she can act, but can Disney make the hair/magic believable without it turning cheesy? also hope its actually sung, not just background music
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