Milo Manheim Lands Role as Flynn Rider in Disney’s Live-Action Tangled
Sydney, 8 January 2026 – American actor Milo Manheim, best known for his starring role as Zed in Disney’s Zombies franchise, has been confirmed to play Flynn Rider in Walt Disney Pictures’ upcoming live-action adaptation of Tangled. The announcement, made on 7 January 2026, pairs him with Australian actress Teagan Croft, who will portray Rapunzel.
Career Highlights and Recent Projects
Manheim, the son of actress Camryn Manheim, rose to fame through the Zombies series, where he starred in four films, including the 2025 release Zombies 4: Dawn of the Vampires. In that instalment, he reprised his role as Zed, exploring themes of unity between vampires and daywalkers alongside co-stars Meg Donnelly as Addison and new leads like Malachi Barton and Freya Skye. He also serves as a producer on the franchise, which has been praised for its musical elements and messages of acceptance.
Beyond Zombies, Manheim currently stars as Wally Clark in the Paramount+ series School Spirits, a teen drama that has run from 2023 to 2026. His theatre credits include playing Seymour in the off-Broadway revival of Little Shop of Horrors and the apostle Peter in Jesus Christ Superstar at the Hollywood Bowl in 2025. Manheim also competed on season 27 of Dancing with the Stars, finishing in second place with partner Witney Carson.
The Tangled remake, directed by Michael Gracey of The Greatest Showman, is expected to feature big musical elements, with songs by Alan Menken and Glenn Slater. Screenwriter Jennifer Kaytin Robinson has adapted the story, focusing on Rapunzel’s escape from her tower and her adventures with the charming thief Flynn Rider. No release date has been set, but production is in pre-production.
Key Facts and Milestones
| Milestone | Details |
|---|---|
| Zombies Franchise | Starred in four films (2018–2025), produced Zombies 4. |
| School Spirits | Lead role as Wally Clark (2023–2026). |
| Theatre Work | Seymour in Little Shop of Horrors (off-Broadway), Peter in Jesus Christ Superstar (2025). |
| Dancing with the Stars | Second place in season 27 (2018). |
| Tangled Casting | Flynn Rider, announced 7 January 2026. |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Milo Manheim’s most famous role?
Manheim is best known for playing Zed in Disney’s Zombies franchise, which includes four films and has a massive fanbase for its blend of music, dance, and themes of inclusion.
Is School Spirits still airing?
Yes, School Spirits is an ongoing series on Paramount+, with seasons running from 2023 to 2026, featuring Manheim as a key cast member alongside Peyton List and Nick Pugliese.
What can fans expect from the live-action Tangled?
The remake will likely retain the animated film’s songs and story, with Manheim as the witty thief Flynn Rider and Croft as the adventurous Rapunzel, directed by Michael Gracey.