Disney’s Live-Action Tangled Returns: Sabrina Carpenter and Francesca Amewudah-Rivers Rumored to Lead a Magical Revival

Disney has reignited the spark of one of its most cherished fairy tales, with production on the live-action adaptation of Tangled reportedly restarting in November 2024. The news has sent fans into a frenzy, particularly with rumors that pop sensation Sabrina Carpenter and rising star Francesca Amewudah-Rivers are set to headline the cast. As the House of Mouse continues its ambitious slate of live-action remakes, Tangled promises to bring the magic of Rapunzel’s story to a new generation, blending nostalgia with fresh talent. With Carpenter’s star power and Amewudah-Rivers’ dynamic presence, this revival could be Disney’s next big hit—or a bold gamble in a competitive landscape. What’s driving the excitement, and can Tangled shine as brightly in live-action as it did in animation?

The Legacy of Tangled

Released in 2010, Disney’s Tangled was a vibrant reimagining of the Rapunzel fairy tale, blending humor, heart, and stunning animation. The story follows Rapunzel, a young woman with magical, golden hair, who’s been locked in a tower by the manipulative Mother Gothel. With the help of charming thief Flynn Rider, Rapunzel embarks on a journey of self-discovery, uncovering her true identity as a lost princess. The film’s catchy songs, like “I See the Light” and “When Will My Life Begin,” along with its witty dialogue and lush visuals, made it an instant classic. Grossing over $590 million worldwide, Tangled revitalized Disney’s princess brand, paving the way for hits like Frozen and Moana.

The film’s enduring appeal lies in its universal themes—freedom, identity, and love—paired with memorable characters. Rapunzel’s blend of curiosity and courage, Flynn’s roguish charm, and Gothel’s chilling villainy resonated with audiences of all ages. The animated Tangled also spawned a TV series, Rapunzel’s Tangled Adventure, which expanded the story and deepened fans’ connection to the world. Given this legacy, a live-action adaptation carries high expectations, with fans eager to see how Disney will translate the magic to a new medium.

A Production Restart: What We Know

Disney’s decision to restart production on Tangled in November 2024 signals renewed commitment to the project, which has been in development for years. Early rumors of a live-action Tangled surfaced as far back as 2019, but progress stalled, likely due to the pandemic and Disney’s focus on other remakes like The Little Mermaid and Snow White. The November restart suggests that key pieces—script, director, or cast—are finally falling into place, setting the stage for a potential release in 2026 or 2027.

While Disney has not officially confirmed the cast, speculation about Sabrina Carpenter and Francesca Amewudah-Rivers has dominated online discussions. Carpenter, a multi-talented singer and actress, is rumored to be in talks for Rapunzel, a role that would leverage her vocal prowess and charismatic screen presence. Amewudah-Rivers, known for her powerful performances in theater and film, is a less specific rumor, with fans debating whether she could play a reimagined Gothel, a supporting character, or even Rapunzel herself in a bold casting twist. The lack of clarity only fuels the excitement, as fans imagine how these dynamic performers will bring Tangled to life.

The Rumored Cast: Sabrina Carpenter and Francesca Amewudah-Rivers

Sabrina Carpenter, at 25, has emerged as one of Hollywood’s brightest stars. Her music career, with hits like “Espresso” and “Please Please Please,” has made her a global pop icon, while her acting roles in Girl Meets World and The Hate U Give showcase her versatility. Carpenter’s blonde locks, expressive voice, and youthful energy make her a natural fit for Rapunzel, a character defined by her optimism and strength. Her ability to handle both comedic and emotional moments aligns with Rapunzel’s arc, and her singing talent could elevate the film’s musical numbers, which are expected to be a cornerstone of the adaptation.

Francesca Amewudah-Rivers, a British actress gaining international recognition, brings a different kind of gravitas. Her breakout role in the 2024 West End production of Romeo & Juliet opposite Tom Holland earned rave reviews, highlighting her ability to command the stage. On screen, she’s appeared in projects like Bad Education and The Power, showcasing a range that could suit various Tangled roles. If cast as Gothel, Amewudah-Rivers could bring a fresh, nuanced take to the villain, emphasizing psychological manipulation over cartoonish evil. Alternatively, she might play a character like Cassandra from the Tangled series, reimagined for the film. Her casting would also signal Disney’s commitment to diverse representation, a priority in recent remakes.

The pairing of Carpenter and Amewudah-Rivers is a tantalizing prospect. Carpenter’s mainstream appeal could draw younger audiences, while Amewudah-Rivers’ dramatic chops could add depth to the story. Together, they represent a blend of pop culture stardom and emerging talent, a formula that could make Tangled stand out in Disney’s crowded remake lineup.

Disney’s Live-Action Strategy

The Tangled revival comes at a critical juncture for Disney’s live-action division. Over the past decade, the studio has transformed its animated classics into live-action blockbusters, with successes like Beauty and the Beast ($1.2 billion) and The Lion King ($1.6 billion). However, recent entries, such as Snow White and Pinocchio, have faced mixed reviews and underwhelming box office returns, raising questions about audience fatigue. Critics argue that some remakes lack the innovation of the originals, while fans debate changes to beloved stories, from casting to narrative tweaks.

Tangled offers a chance to buck this trend. Unlike older classics, the animated Tangled is a relatively recent film, meaning its fanbase spans both nostalgic adults and younger viewers who grew up with the TV series. Its vibrant aesthetic and musical DNA make it well-suited for a live-action spectacle, with opportunities for stunning visuals—think Rapunzel’s glowing hair or the iconic lantern scene. Disney’s challenge will be to honor the original while introducing fresh elements, such as updated themes or expanded character arcs, to justify the remake.

The rumored casting also reflects Disney’s evolving approach to representation. Recent remakes, like The Little Mermaid with Halle Bailey, have prioritized diverse talent, aiming to reflect a global audience. Amewudah-Rivers’ potential involvement could continue this trend, while Carpenter’s casting would appeal to a broad demographic. Balancing these dynamics will be key to winning over fans and silencing skeptics.

Challenges and Opportunities

Adapting Tangled presents unique challenges. The animated film’s stylized visuals, from Rapunzel’s exaggerated hair to the whimsical kingdom of Corona, will need careful translation to live-action. Visual effects will play a major role, particularly in depicting the magical hair, which serves as both a plot device and a symbol of Rapunzel’s identity. Disney’s experience with CGI-heavy remakes, like Aladdin, should help, but striking the right balance between realism and fairy-tale charm is crucial.

Casting is another hurdle. While Carpenter and Amewudah-Rivers are exciting choices, fan expectations are sky-high. Rapunzel is an iconic character, and any deviation from the animated version—whether in appearance, voice, or personality—could spark backlash, as seen with other remakes. The chemistry between Rapunzel and Flynn Rider (whose casting remains unconfirmed) will also be pivotal, given their romance’s central role. Disney will need to ensure the leads capture the banter and heart that made the original so beloved.

Yet, the opportunities are immense. Tangled’s music offers a chance to create show-stopping moments, with Carpenter’s vocal talent potentially elevating songs like “I See the Light” to new heights. The story’s themes—self-discovery, resilience, and defying expectations—resonate in today’s world, particularly for younger audiences navigating identity and independence. A live-action Tangled could also expand on the original, perhaps exploring Rapunzel’s adjustment to royal life or Gothel’s backstory, adding depth for adult viewers.

The Fan Reaction and What’s Next

News of the production restart and rumored cast has set social media ablaze. Fans have flooded platforms with fan art, casting wishlists, and edits imagining Carpenter as Rapunzel, complete with glowing hair. Amewudah-Rivers’ potential involvement has sparked intrigue, with some praising her as a bold choice for Gothel or a reimagined role. Online debates rage over whether the remake is necessary, but the enthusiasm for Tangled’s return is undeniable, with hashtags like #TangledLiveAction trending worldwide.

For now, details remain scarce. Disney has yet to confirm the cast, director, or release date, but the November restart suggests momentum is building. If Carpenter and Amewudah-Rivers are indeed involved, their star power could make Tangled a cultural event, drawing audiences to theaters and Disney+. The studio’s track record with remakes, while uneven, proves it can deliver when the ingredients align—vision, talent, and heart.

As production ramps up, Tangled stands at the crossroads of nostalgia and innovation. With Sabrina Carpenter and Francesca Amewudah-Rivers rumored to lead, Disney has a chance to weave a new fairy tale that captures the magic of the original while forging its own path. For fans dreaming of lanterns lighting up the sky, the wait is on—and the excitement is only just beginning.