In a surprising yet telling move, Disney Studios has reportedly hit the brakes on the development of its live-action adaptation of Tangled, according to The Hollywood Reporter. The decision comes in the wake of the underwhelming public reception of the upcoming Snow White remake, raising questions about the studio’s direction and the future of its live-action projects.
Sources close to the matter suggest that British actress Francesca Amewudah-Rivers was being strongly considered to take on the iconic role of Rapunzel in the reimagined version of Tangled. While no official casting announcement had been made, Amewudah-Rivers—known for her work in theater and her recent rise in screen roles—was reportedly a front-runner for the part before development came to a sudden halt.
A Pause Amidst Growing Controversy
Disney’s decision to pause the project appears to be a direct response to the ongoing debate surrounding its recent live-action ventures. The most recent flashpoint? The studio’s remake of Snow White, which has been met with criticism even before its official release. The backlash has centered around several issues, including casting choices, story modifications, and the perceived departure from the original fairy tale’s tone and charm.
While Disney has championed inclusivity and modern reinterpretations in its remakes, the studio is now finding itself navigating choppy waters as fans express fatigue over what some consider unnecessary reboots of beloved animated classics.
Francesca Amewudah-Rivers: A Star in Waiting?
Though not yet a household name, Francesca Amewudah-Rivers has been steadily carving out a space in the entertainment world with her compelling performances on stage and screen. With a rich theatrical background, including performances at the National Theatre and Shakespeare’s Globe, she has been praised for her emotional depth and magnetic presence.
Insiders say her audition and screen tests for Tangled left a strong impression on Disney executives, positioning her as a bold and modern choice for the role of Rapunzel—a character known for her resilience, curiosity, and vibrant spirit. Her casting would have marked a significant step in redefining Disney princesses for a new generation.
The Tangled That Could’ve Been
Released in 2010, the animated version of Tangled became an instant classic, beloved for its witty dialogue, dynamic animation, and memorable songs like “I See the Light.” Fans had been buzzing with anticipation since whispers of a live-action version began circulating online last year.
While the plot of the new adaptation was still under wraps, early reports hinted at a fresh visual take on the kingdom of Corona and a deeper exploration of Rapunzel’s emotional journey. With Disney investing heavily in production design and visual effects for its latest projects, expectations were understandably high.
Disney’s Crossroads
The halt in development of Tangled reflects a broader reassessment within Disney Studios. While live-action adaptations like The Lion King, Aladdin, and Beauty and the Beast have seen box-office success, the recent backlash suggests that audiences are seeking more than nostalgia-driven storytelling.
The studio now finds itself at a crossroads: should it double down on beloved formulas, or pivot towards original content and more thoughtful reinterpretations?
Some analysts believe that Disney is using this pause not only to regroup creatively but also to read the room more carefully. With social media platforms like Facebook and TikTok amplifying public opinion, audience reception can make or break a project before it even hits theaters.
What Comes Next?
For now, the fate of Tangled remains uncertain. While the pause may disappoint fans eager for a new take on Rapunzel’s story, it also opens the door for Disney to reconsider how it approaches its modern princess narratives.
As for Francesca Amewudah-Rivers, this may be just the beginning. Whether she eventually dons the long golden locks or not, her name is now firmly on the radar of casting directors and fans alike. And with her talent and growing presence, it may only be a matter of time before she headlines a major project.
Until then, audiences will be watching closely to see what Disney’s next move will be—and whether the magic of its animated classics can truly be recaptured on the big screen.
