Disney Dazzles with 'Tangled' 2028 Release and First Look Footage at D23

Disney officially announced a release date for its live-action adaptation of "Tangled," setting it for March 31, 2028. This highly anticipated news was unveiled during the Disney Entertainment Showcase at the D23 fan event in Anaheim, where attendees were treated to an exclusive first look at footage from the upcoming film.

The live-action remake will star Teagan Croft as the iconic Rapunzel and Milo Manheim as the charming fugitive, Flynn Rider. It is set to faithfully retell the Brothers Grimm fairytale, mirroring the narrative of the beloved 2010 animated movie. The story centers on Rapunzel, a princess with magically long hair, who is rescued by Flynn Rider after years of isolation in a secluded tower. The cast also features Kathryn Hahn as the film’s antagonist, Mother Gothel, who is responsible for Rapunzel’s confinement. Hahn expressed her enthusiasm for the role at D23, stating, “I love playing Mother Gothel. She’s stunning, hilarious, fab, kind, generous to a fault. Might be overprotective but that’s because she cares so much.” Additionally, Diego Luna will join the cast in a newly created role, while Patrick and Hugo McPherson are set to portray the twin villains, the Stabbington brothers.

Behind the scenes, Michael Gracey, known for his work on “The Greatest Showman,” is directing the film. The screenplay has been penned by Jennifer Kaytin Robinson and Michael Montemayor. Lucy Kitada and Jessica Virtue are serving as executive producers, with Kristin Burr taking on the role of producer. Filming for the adaptation commenced in Spain in June.

The journey to the big screen has had its pauses for the "Tangled" live-action project. While development was initially reported in December 2024, it was put on hold the following April. This decision came after Disney’s “Snow White” adaptation faced a disappointing box office performance, earning only $69 million domestically and $145 million globally.

The original 2010 animated film, which featured Mandy Moore as Rapunzel and Zachary Levi as Flynn, was a massive success, grossing $592 million at the global box office. Its popularity led to several successful spinoffs, including the short film “Tangled Ever After” and the series “Rapunzel’s Tangled Adventure.” The movie also received critical acclaim, with its hit song “I See the Light” earning an Oscar nomination for best original song at the 2011 ceremony, alongside Golden Globe nominations for best animated feature and song.