Disney’s live-action remakes have been both celebrated and criticized, as the studio reimagines its classic animated films for modern audiences. From Cinderella (2015) to Beauty and the Beast (2017), each remake has sparked discussion about the merits and necessity of revisiting these beloved stories.
Fans eagerly await each new installment, hoping for new magic while also fearing that the originals’ charm might be lost in translation.
Related: Disney Moves Away From ‘Lion King’ Remakes, Focuses on Expanding Classic Film Legacy
One of the most anticipated live-action remakes in Disney’s lineup was the Tangled remake, a retelling of the 2010 animated hit that featured Rapunzel and her unforgettable adventure. However, after much speculation, Disney made an unexpected announcement: production on the Tangled live-action film has been put on pause.
This decision follows a string of disappointing box office performances from Disney’s recent live-action adaptations, including the controversial release of Snow White. Now, with the movie no longer moving forward as originally planned, fans are left wondering what could have been.
Related: Disney’s ‘Snow White’ Flops: Rare Warning Issued Over Box Office Disappointment
However, in an unexpected twist, JoJo Siwa, the social media personality and former Dance Moms star, recently revealed that she had auditioned for the role of Rapunzel in the canceled Tangled remake. The revelation has sent shockwaves through Disney fans and sparked a discussion about whether Siwa could have been a good fit for the role of the iconic princess.
JoJo Siwa Shares Her Audition Tape
In an Instagram post on April 25, 2025, JoJo Siwa shared a video of her audition tape for Tangled, offering a rare glimpse into the casting process for a high-profile Disney project.
In the video, Siwa performs a scene from Tangled, dressed with her signature braids and flowers, mimicking Rapunzel’s look from the animated film. The post quickly went viral, garnering a mix of reactions from fans and critics alike.
@oomie.loo i found this amusing lol, she kinda ate that up tho #jojosiwa #jojo #audition #fyp #foryou #foryoupage
Related: Disney Developing a ‘Tangled’ Musical For Broadway
Siwa deleted the video shortly after posting it, but the internet had already taken notice. Fans flooded social media, dissecting her performance and weighing in on whether she was a good fit for the role of Rapunzel.
Some were impressed with her enthusiasm and energy, while others questioned whether her public persona would align with the Disney princess character.
The Cancellation of the ‘Tangled’ Live-Action Remake
The Tangled remake was supposed to be another big addition to Disney’s roster of live-action adaptations, following the success of films like Aladdin and The Lion King.
However, after disappointing performances from recent films, including Snow White and The Little Mermaid, Disney announced that production on the Tangled remake would be put on pause indefinitely.
The decision came after both commercial and critical struggles with Disney’s live-action offerings, especially Snow White, which faced significant backlash not just for its casting but also for its controversial themes.
The underperformance of Snow White at the box office, compounded by the vocal public criticism, led Disney to reassess its strategy for future live-action films. As a result, the Tangled remake, which had been highly anticipated by fans, has been indefinitely delayed.
Related: When Can You Watch ‘Snow White’ on Disney+?
With the movie now on hold, JoJo Siwa took to social media to share her audition tape, likely in an effort to provide her fans with some insight into what could have been.
The Controversy Surrounding JoJo Siwa
Siwa has never been a stranger to controversy. From her rise to fame on Dance Moms to her social media posts, she has often been at the center of public debate. While she has a massive fanbase, particularly among young audiences, her public persona has raised eyebrows, especially when it comes to her behavior at Disney parks.
In 2024, Siwa’s visit to Disney World sparked backlash after she filmed herself engaging in a rowdy, drunken scene at EPCOT, which some saw as inconsistent with Disney’s family-friendly image.
The revelation of her audition for Rapunzel has only intensified the conversation. Many Disney fans are split on whether Siwa would have been a good fit for the role of Rapunzel, with some believing that her energetic, sometimes controversial image doesn’t align with the character’s traditionally wholesome persona.
What Happens Now for the ‘Tangled’ Remake?
As of now, there is no word on when, or even if, the Tangled remake will move forward. The decision to put the film on pause reflects Disney’s cautious approach to its live-action adaptations, as the company rethinks its strategy for future projects. Fans of the original Tangled are understandably disappointed, as the film has remained a fan favorite for over a decade.
What do you think about JoJo Siwa auditioning for Rapunzel in the Tangled live-action remake? Do you think she would have been a good fit for the role, or is her controversial public image too much of a hurdle? Share your thoughts in the comments below and join the conversation on what the future holds for Disney’s live-action adaptations.
What? They aren’t going to cast a 250 lb trans woman as rapunzel???
Who wants JoJo the drunk(remember when she got drunk and disorderly in Epcot). Stop with the remakes Disney.
Disney, do the same to Siwa as you did to Johnny Depp. Drop Her. She has a drinking problem and not a good influence on young children.
Just Remake as original. With someone wholesome, not an alcoholic bimbet. FIGURE IT OUT DISNEY.
We want FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT. Not perversion or politics!!