First look at Disney’s live-action ‘Tangled’ divides fans over Rapunzel and Flynn Rider

Disney’s first set photographs from its upcoming live-action adaptation of Tangled have sparked mixed reactions online, with many fans praising Rapunzel’s appearance while criticising the design of Flynn Rider.

According to reports, filming is now underway, with Teagan Croft starring as Rapunzel and Milo Manheim portraying Flynn Rider.

Newly released set photos show Croft wearing Rapunzel’s signature long blonde braid and purple dress, while Manheim appears in costume with a moustache, goatee and dark hair inspired by the animated character.

Much of the online response has focused on Rapunzel’s iconic hair, with many social media users saying Disney had done justice to the character’s famous braid. Fans also praised the overall styling of Rapunzel, saying it closely resembled the beloved 2010 animated film.

However, reactions to Flynn Rider have been considerably more divided.

Many viewers criticised Manheim’s hairstyle, describing it as too short and lacking the rugged appearance associated with the animated character. Others argued that his moustache and hairstyle made him look less charismatic than Flynn Rider, whose scruffy goatee and confident look have become defining features of the character.

Manheim’s casting had already faced criticism when it was announced earlier this year, with some social media users objecting to the actor over his public support for Zionism.

Following the release of the first-look images, many fans renewed calls for different casting choices, with social media quickly filling with edits and fan suggestions of actors they believed would have been better suited to play Flynn Rider.

The film is directed by Michael Gracey from a screenplay by Jennifer Kaytin Robinson.

Kathryn Hahn stars as Mother Gothel, with Diego Luna also joining the cast.

Disney has not yet announced an official release date for Tangled, although the live-action remake is expected to arrive in 2027.