In a surprising but telling move, Disney Studios has halted development of its live-action adaptation of “Tangled ,” according to The Hollywood Reporter . The decision follows the disappointing audience response to the upcoming ” Snow White ” remake and raises questions about the studio’s direction and the future of its live-action films.
Sources close to the film suggest that British actress Francesca Amewudah-Rivers was seriously considered for the iconic role of Rapunzel in the reboot of “ Tangled.” Although no official casting announcement had been made, Amewudah-Rivers—known for her theater work and recent success in the film world—was considered a favorite for the role before filming was abruptly halted.
Disney’s decision to pause the project appears to be a direct response to the ongoing debate surrounding its recent live-action projects. The most recent flashpoint? The studio’s remake of ” Snow White,” which faced criticism even before its official release. The backlash centered on several issues, including casting choices, plot changes, and the perceived departure from the tone and charm of the original fairy tale.
While Disney focuses on inclusivity and modern reinterpretations in its remakes, the studio is now in a difficult position as fans express their fatigue with what some consider unnecessary remakes of beloved animated classics.
Although Francesca Amewudah-Rivers is not yet a household name, she is carving out a place for herself in the entertainment world with her captivating performances on stage and screen. Thanks to her extensive theater experience, including performances at the National Theatre and Shakespeare’s Globe, she has been praised for her emotional depth and captivating presence.
Insiders report that her audition and screen test for “ Tangled” made 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. Casting her would have been an important step in redefining Disney princesses for a new generation.
The 2010 animated version of “Tangled” became an instant classic, captivating audiences with witty dialogue, dynamic animation, and catchy songs like “I See the Light.” Fans have been eagerly anticipating the film since rumors of a live-action adaptation began circulating online last year.
While the plot of the new adaptation was still under wraps, initial reports suggested a fresh visual interpretation of the kingdom of Corona and a deeper exploration of Rapunzel’s emotional journey. Given Disney’s heavy investment in production design and visual effects for its latest projects, expectations were understandably high.
The halt to development of “Tangled ” reflects a comprehensive reassessment within Disney Studios. While live-action adaptations like ” The Lion King , ” “Aladdin,” and “Beauty and the Beast” have enjoyed box office success, the recent backlash suggests audiences expect more than just nostalgic storytelling.
The studio now finds itself at a crossroads: Should it focus on popular formulas or concentrate on original content and more thoughtful reinterpretations?
Some analysts believe Disney is using this hiatus not only to regroup creatively, but also to better gauge the mood. Because social media platforms like Facebook and TikTok amplify public opinion, audience response can determine the success or failure of a project before it even hits theaters.
The fate of “Tangled ” remains uncertain for now. The hiatus may disappoint fans eager for a new version of Rapunzel’s story, but it also presents Disney with an opportunity to rethink its approach to modern princess stories.
For Francesca Amewudah-Rivers, this could be just the beginning. Whether she eventually embraces those long golden locks or not, her name is now firmly on the radar of casting directors and fans. And with her talent and growing presence, it may only be a matter of time before she stars in a major project.
Until then, viewers will be closely following Disney’s next move – and whether the magic of its animated classics can actually be recaptured on the big screen.
