Diego Luna is stepping from a galaxy far, far away into the magical woodlands of a classic fairytale. The acclaimed Mexican actor, renowned for his role as Cassian Andor in the Disney+ series “Andor,” has joined Disney’s upcoming live-action adaptation of “Tangled,” the studio’s fresh take of the timeless Brothers Grimm story of Rapunzel. Luna will star alongside Teagan Croft, Milo Manheim and Kathryn Hahn in the motion picture, which is scheduled to start production in Spain this June. The actor will play an entirely new character created specifically for the live-action version, marking another significant addition to Disney’s growing collection of reimagined fairy tales.
A New Beginning for the Highly Regarded Mexican Actor
Luna’s role in “Tangled” represents yet a further achievement in an already acclaimed career spanning film, television, and production. The actor has garnered critical acclaim for his contributions in many productions, such as the celebrated Mexican film “Y Tu Mamá También” and his more recent turn in the crime thriller “La Máquina.” His participation in Disney’s live-action remake demonstrates the studio’s commitment to casting A-list actors for its reimagined classic stories, whilst Luna goes on to expand his range of work throughout various entertainment ventures and platforms.
Beyond his work on “Tangled,” Luna remains exceptionally busy with numerous prominent projects in development. His directorial venture “Ashes,” which he also wrote alongside others, will debut at the 2026 Cannes Film Festival, demonstrating his skills as a filmmaker. He is also set to star in Netflix’s “Mexico 86,” a biographical drama about a government administrator’s pivotal role in securing Mexico’s hosting of the 1986 World Cup, and has just finished filming on “Eleven Days.” Additionally, Luna co-founded the film production firm La Corriente del Golfo alongside fellow Mexican actor Gael García Bernal.
- Starred in “Rogue One: A Star Wars Story” as Cassian Andor
- Established production company La Corriente del Golfo with Gael García Bernal
- Directing and co-writing feature “Ashes” debuting at Cannes 2026
- Represented by WME and ID PR for entertainment industry affairs
Adapting the Rapunzel Story to the Modern Screen
Disney’s live-action adaptation of “Tangled” showcases the studio’s ongoing dedication to reimagining its classic animated works for modern viewers. The project assembles an strong roster of creative talent, with Michael Gracey, the award-winning director of the musical sensation “The Greatest Showman,” helming the feature. The screenplay was written by Jennifer Kaytin Robinson, celebrated for her work on “I Know What You Did Last Summer,” working with Michael Montemayor, confirming the adaptation will combine innovative story elements with the cherished original story that audiences have treasured for the past decade.
Production on the live-action “Tangled” is set to begin in Spain next June, with Kristin Burr producing through her production company Burr! Productions. Jessica Virtue, Executive Vice President of production for Disney Live Action, is managing the project to ensure it satisfies the studio’s exacting standards. Whilst Disney has not disclosed an official release date for the film, the project’s impressive cast and creative talent suggest the studio is investing significant resources into delivering a quality-focused reimagining that respects the original whilst offering something distinctly new for audiences worldwide.
The Original Animation’s Lasting Legacy
The 2010 animated “Tangled” became a cultural phenomenon, earning more than £591 million worldwide and establishing itself as one of Disney’s most successful animated features. The film’s innovative approach on the timeless Brothers Grimm tale of Rapunzel connected with viewers across all age groups, blending stunning animation, iconic songs, and engaging character development. Its success went further than the cinema, creating a Disney Channel series that continued to develop the world and characters fans had grown to love.
The sustained popularity of the original animation underscores why Disney chose this particular fairytale for its live-action remake lineup. The film’s creative narrative approach and vivid character designs have maintained their appeal over the years, ensuring a built-in fanbase keen to see how the story transfers to live-action. With such a solid base and the participation of Luna and his fellow cast members, the live-action adaptation has considerable expectations to meet whilst carving its own distinctive path.
Creative Professionals Responsible for the Reimagining
| Role | Name |
|---|---|
| Director | Michael Gracey |
| Screenplay | Jennifer Kaytin Robinson and Michael Montemayor |
| Producer | Kristin Burr |
| Disney Live Action Executive Vice President of Production | Jessica Virtue |
| Lead Cast Member | Diego Luna |
The artistic direction for Disney’s live-action “Tangled” lies with the capable hands of Michael Gracey, the acclaimed director behind the blockbuster musical “The Greatest Showman.” Gracey’s demonstrated skill in delivering visual grandeur and emotional depth to the screen makes him well-suited to adapt the animated classic into a breathtakingly beautiful live-action experience. Working alongside Gracey, screenwriters Jennifer Kaytin Robinson and Michael Montemayor will craft the screenplay, bringing their distinctive voices to this reimagined fairytale whilst preserving the heart and charm that made the original animation resonate with audiences worldwide.
Luna’s Expanding Portfolio Throughout Leading Platforms
Diego Luna’s involvement in the live-action “Tangled” adaptation occurs during a particularly prolific moment in his career. The acclaimed Mexican actor has built a reputation as one of the most sought-after talents across film and television, seamlessly transitioning between major studio projects and independent ventures. His casting in Disney’s reimagining demonstrates his enduring appeal to mainstream audiences, whilst his concurrent work on prestige projects emphasises his commitment to varied, purposeful narratives across various formats and channels.
Beyond the “Tangled” interpretation, Luna’s upcoming projects demonstrate his versatility and drive as both actor and filmmaker. His directorial effort “Ashes,” adapted from an critically praised Spanish-language novel, will debut at the renowned 2026 Cannes Film Festival, marking a major achievement in his work as a director. Simultaneously, he is set to star in Netflix’s “Mexico 86,” a factual drama focusing on a government official’s crucial involvement in Mexico’s hosting of the 1986 World Cup, whilst also having just finished production on the film “Eleven Days.”
- Directed and co-authored “Ashes,” premiering at Cannes Film Festival 2026
- Starring in Netflix’s “Mexico 86” concerning the 1986 World Cup negotiations
- Recently wrapped production on film “Eleven Days” alongside other projects
- Co-founded film production company La Corriente del Golfo with Gael García Bernal