Tangled Live Action: Who Will Play Rapunzel?

A live-action adaptation of one of the most popular princess movies is in the works; Rapunzel. The information is limited, so as always, there have been debates over how the movie should be portrayed. More specifically, who should play Rapunzel has taken over social media with predictions, inquiries, hopes, and of course lots of fan edits. With high expectations for this upcoming princess, the Disney community will settle for nothing less than perfection. I have listed over five of the most talked about predictions about who will play the bubbly princess Rapunzel. 

 

Sabrina Carpenter

Before the live-action film Tangled was confirmed, I had seen the idea of “Espresso” singer and former Disney Channel actress portraying the titular character, Rapunzel, for years. Many are claiming that she looks just like a Disney princess already, adding that she has seemed to show interest in the character as she dressed up as the princess in 2023 for Halloween. It should be noted that Mandy Moore, who voiced Rapunzel in the original animated film, expressed her support for Carpenter, stating, “I could see her with 50 feet of hair or something. She looks like a Disney princess in real life.” There have been some critics though, claiming that the singer is too old for a character that is meant to be 17, as having mature features that would take an audience member out of the story. As well, some parents believe her current music is not “suitable”  for young kids, and having Carpenter portray the princess would be poor marketing. 

 

Meg Donnelly

Zombies star Meg Donnelly portraying Rapunzel has received overwhelming support from Disney fans, as many want her Zombies co-star Milo Manheim to play Flynn Ryder due to his striking resemblance, and because of the talent she has proved with her role as high-school cheerleader Addison. Her talent for singing and dancing, as well as her kind personality, has made her a perfect contender. If Manheim was to be cast as Flynn Ryder, the connection between the two would already be prevalent. However, it has been argued that it may be confusing for children to see the same two people starring in another hit musical. 

 

Avantika Vandanapu

Avantika Vandanapu’s admission into the casting process has been circulating TikTok prior to the confirmation of the live-action adaptation. The actress, who is known for her recent role in the 2024 Mean Girls as Karen, has outstanding talent and vocal qualities. Her bubbly personality looks to be a big aspect of what has attracted fans to the idea, keeping her as a contender in the casting race. 

 

Mckenna Grace

The child star is the perfect age for the part. The 18-year-old has been many people’s most “reasonable” choice due to the fact she is one of the only age-accurate actresses. Her fanbase has held strong for this casting, saying it would not only be a dream for them but for Mckenna herself. She once said in an interview, “I have like my two dream roles in life. I feel like most little girls grow up and want to be a Disney princess. And so that was always my dream growing up.” She followed by saying that Tangled is one of her favorite films of all time. Her singing and acting capabilities, not to mention fan support, would cause much excitement if she were to be announced as Rapunzel.

 

Ruby Rose Turner

Although a lesser-known actress, Ruby Rose Turner has had much speculation about her playing Rapunzel. Turner has played Bridget in Descendants: The Rise of Red, and has acted in other Disney shows such as Coop and Cami Ask the World and the Netflix original Fuller House. A talented singer, dancer, and actress, this triple threat is another age-appropriate fit. She has also mentioned in an interview that if she could play any other Disney character, it would be Tangled’s Rapunzel.