Disney’s live-action remake of the 2010 animated hit Tangled is finally gaining momentum after years of starts and stops. Directed by Michael Gracey of The Greatest Showman fame, the project restarted in late 2025 following a brief pause, with screen tests and chemistry reads held in London just weeks ago. At the center of the excitement is the coveted role of Flynn Rider—the charming, smoldering thief originally voiced by Zachary Levi. Known for his quick wit, roguish swagger, and hidden vulnerability as Eugene Fitzherbert, Flynn demands an actor who can balance comedy, romance, action, and musical numbers.
While no official casting has been announced, reports from reliable industry sources have revealed a shortlist of young talents who’ve auditioned or tested for the part. The process emphasizes fresh faces with singing ability, charisma, and the ability to capture Flynn’s trademark “smolder.” Here’s a breakdown of every actor confirmed to have auditioned, along with why one emerges as the strongest contender.
Leading the pack is Milo Manheim, the 24-year-old star of Disney’s Zombies franchise. Manheim has repeatedly been named in reports as one of the top testers, bringing his proven Disney pedigree and musical chops to the table. With experience in dance-heavy roles and a natural boyish charm, he excels at playing energetic, likable leads who undergo heartfelt growth. His swagger in action sequences and easy rapport in romantic scenes make him a safe, crowd-pleasing choice that aligns with Disney’s family-friendly vibe.
Close behind is Charlie Gillespie, the 27-year-old Canadian known for Netflix’s Julie and the Phantoms. Gillespie, another musical standout, tested alongside Manheim and impressed with his laid-back vibe and vocal talent. His role as a ghostly musician showcased his ability to blend humor, heart, and performance, qualities essential for Flynn’s banter with Rapunzel and solo numbers. Gillespie’s effortless cool and expressive eyes evoke the animated character’s playfulness, making him a fan favorite in online discussions.
Rounding out the confirmed testers is Gilli Jones, a Scottish-Indonesian theater actor with skills in singing, piano, guitar, accordion, and dance. As a relative newcomer, Jones brings a fresh perspective and multicultural appeal. His stage background suggests strong physicality for sword fights and chases, while his musical versatility could shine in the film’s songs. Though less known to mainstream audiences, his unique look and talent have generated buzz for adding diversity to the role.
Earlier in the project’s on-again-off-again development, Corey Mylchreest auditioned when the film was briefly halted. The Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerton Story star admitted his tape “wasn’t very good,” citing a lack of strong singing experience as a hurdle. Mylchreest’s regal presence and heartthrob status made him an intriguing fit for Flynn’s princely undertones, but the musical demands likely sidelined him when the remake restarted.
Other names have surfaced in rumors and fan casts but lack confirmed auditions. Taylor Zakhar Perez (Red, White & Royal Blue) is frequently mentioned for his romantic leading-man energy. Avan Jogia, Fabien Frankel (House of the Dragon), and Louis Partridge have inspired viral edits due to their resemblance to the animated Flynn. Mason Thames (The Black Phone) appeared in some insider rumors as a potential dark horse. Even high-profile suggestions like Timothée Chalamet—endorsed by Zachary Levi himself—remain fan-driven without testing reports.
The role requires more than looks: Flynn is sarcastic yet sincere, arrogant yet redeemable, with physical comedy in escapes and tenderness in quieter moments. Singing is non-negotiable, given classics like “I’ve Got a Dream.”
Among the auditionees, Charlie Gillespie stands out as the best fit. His proven musical theater background gives him an edge in delivering the film’s upbeat numbers with genuine flair. Gillespie’s natural charisma—seen in his ghostly band leader role—perfectly captures Flynn’s cocky exterior masking deeper insecurity. He has the vocal range, dance ability, and comedic timing to nail the smolder, banter, and emotional arc. Paired with his youthful energy and on-screen chemistry potential, Gillespie could bring a fresh yet faithful interpretation that honors Levi’s performance while making it his own.
Manheim is a close second, offering Disney familiarity and broad appeal, but Gillespie’s edgier, more nuanced vibe feels truer to Flynn’s rogue-with-a-heart essence. Jones intrigues with his versatility, but his lower profile might make him a riskier choice for such a high-profile lead.
As production eyes a June 2026 start in the UK, the final decision looms. Whichever actor lands the satchel, they’ll join a legacy of swashbuckling charm. For now, the audition race has fans dreaming of lantern-lit adventures—and debating who’ll deliver the ultimate smolder.
