Disney’s ‘Tangled’ live-action could cast Stranger Things’ Sadie Sink, but she’s not the only contender
![Screenshot of Rapunzel from 'Tangled' trailer; Sadie Sink attends 'Stranger Things 5' UK Special Screening on November 13, 2025 in London, England (Cover Image Source: [L] YouTube | @waltdisneyanimations; [R] Getty Images | Photo by Karwai Tang)](https://d2a0gza273xfgz.cloudfront.net/782747/uploads/f97ad910-d408-11f0-9285-f5464ffcc7b4_1200_630.jpeg)
The competition is heating up for the lead role in Disney's upcoming live-action 'Tangled' movie, and we're beyond excited. After the success of the 2010 animated film, Disney is bringing Rapunzel's magical story to life on the big screen. However, after the backlash over Rachel Zegler's casting in 'Snow White', Disney is being extra cautious with their choice for the lead role. And if rumors are right, one of the actresses under consideration is a star from 'Stranger Things'.
in London, England (Image Source: Getty Images | Photo by Gareth Cattermole)
Disney is considering several actresses for the lead role of Rapunzel in the 'Tangled' remake, including 'Stranger Things' actress Sadie Sink. In addition to Sink, McKenna Grace, Emma Myers, and Isabel May are also being considered for the role of the beloved princess. Singer Sabrina Carpenter was also considered but passed over, and Florence Pugh was previously eyed. Former Marvel star Scarlett Johansson is rumored for the character of Mother Gothel, though her involvement is uncertain, as per Knight Edge Media.
Notably, no official cast has been confirmed, and production is expected to start next year. As per reports, Michael Gracey (The Greatest Showman) is in talks to direct the 'Tangled' remake, which originally had Mandy Moore as Rapunzel. The latest screenplay draft was written by Jennifer Kaytin Robinson, the mind behind 'I Know What You Did Last Summer', with producers Kristin Burr and Emmy-winner Lucy Kitada, as per The Hollywood Reporter.
Based on the Brothers Grimm fairy tale, the original 'Tangled' follows Rapunzel (Mandy Moore), who has been trapped in a tower her whole life, as she escapes with the help of a thief, Flynn Rider (Zachary Levi). The film earned over $590 million worldwide and received an Oscar nomination for Best Original Song for 'I See the Light.' Disney continues to invest in live-action remakes of beloved animated classics, including 'Mufasa: The Lion King' by Barry Jenkins, Zegle's 'Snow White' released in March 2025, and the 'Lilo & Stitch' premiered in May 2025.
Gracey, acclaimed for directing 'The Greatest Showman' with Hugh Jackman, Zac Efron, and Michelle Williams, brought a musical, fictionalized take on PT Barnum’s life to the big screen. Released in 2017, the film grossed $434 million worldwide and earned an Academy Award nomination for Best Original Song with the hit 'This Is Me.' Gracey's success with large-scale musicals highlights his fit for the 'Tangled' live-action remake.
