Milo Manheim, known for the Disney Channel's *Zombies* franchise, confirmed his casting as Flynn Rider in Disney’s upcoming live-action *Tangled* remake, creating a buzz just as he made a striking appearance at the 2026 Oscars.

A Dream Role Takes Shape

At 24, Manheim's landing the role of Flynn Rider—a charming thief—is his biggest shot at film stardom yet. Disney officially confirmed Manheim's role on January 7, 2026, just two months before his high-profile Oscars appearance. The news immediately got Hollywood buzzing about this ambitious musical adaptation, with Michael Gracey directing.

When Manheim talked to *Live with Kelly and Mark*, he couldn't contain his excitement about how he found out. Disney gave him the news just 10 minutes before telling the world. "I found out 10 minutes before the news was released that I'd be playing Flynn," Manheim told *Entertainment Weekly*. "So that day was, I woke up just like any other day, and by the end of the day it was beautiful. The world knew it was great."

The *Tangled* remake is shaping up with a strong cast. Manheim will star opposite Teagan Croft, who takes on the role of Rapunzel. Veteran actress Kathryn Hahn is set to play the villainous Mother Gothel. Jennifer Kaytin Robinson penned the screenplay for the film, which is currently slated for a 2027 release, though a specific date remains unannounced.

Intense Preparation for an Iconic Character

Manheim's not messing around—he's put himself through a grueling training regimen to nail Flynn Rider's adventurous vibe. He's learning breath control and gymnastics, among other essential skills. The actor is also undergoing rock climbing lessons and horseback riding classes to master the character’s physically demanding, acrobatic sequences.

He even joked about the need for a large horse, referencing his own tall stature. "They're looking for a giant stallion," Manheim quipped, assuring fans that movie magic would ensure the angles work perfectly on screen. It's clear Disney wants this live-action version to feel totally different from the animated original—and they're willing to push their actors hard to get there.

His years doing musicals made him the obvious choice for Flynn Rider. He previously showcased his theatrical talents earlier this year in an off-Broadway revival of *Little Shop of Horrors*. His years starring in the *Zombies* franchise also provided him with considerable experience in choreographed musical performances, preparing him for the demands of a Disney musical.

A Stylish Presence at the Oscars

But it wasn't just the casting news turning heads—Manheim's Oscars fit had people talking too. He arrived on the red carpet in a refined GapStudio black tailcoat jacket, paired with a matching cummerbund and slacks. Underneath, he wore a gray shirt and a classic bowtie.

The real flex? His accessories. Manheim opted for two trendy brooches: a flower pinned to his lapel and another pin featuring a teardrop-shaped charm. He finished it off with sunglasses, a watch, and soft curls in his hair. Before the event, Manheim teased his Oscars appearance on Instagram, posting a photo where he wore a monochrome cranberry red suit, with the blazer draped over his shoulder to reveal a matching button-up. That ensemble featured a gold watch, rings, chain bracelets, and necklaces, all complemented by round sunglasses and his hair pushed back with a single curl falling forward.

Anyone who follows Manheim knew his Oscars look would be sharp and on-trend. He’s known for his bold fashion choices, having worn a suit with an asymmetrical blazer and another brooch at the Annual Artios Awards last month. The *Teen Vogue* cover star has said his style icons are Tyler, The Creator and Tommy Shelby from *Peaky Blinders*—plus his own personal twist.

Young Hollywood Shines at the Academy Awards

Manheim wasn't the only rising star bringing fresh energy to the 98th Oscars. Entertainment Weekly got the exclusive on which up-and-coming talents were showing up. This group included Anna Cathcart from *XO, Kitty*, Charithra Chandran of *One Piece*, Auli'i Cravalho from *Moana*, Ryan Destiny of *The Fire Inside*, Barbie Ferreira from *Mile End Kicks*, Mckenna Grace of *Regretting You*, and Ariana Greenblatt from *Barbie*. Also present were Marsai Martin of *Black-ish*, Chase Stokes from *Outer Banks*, and Mason Thames of *How to Train Your Dragon*.

All 11 of them hit the red carpet before heading inside the Dolby Theatre for the live show on ABC and Hulu at 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT, with Conan O'Brien hosting. The Academy already announced a stacked lineup of presenters: Adrien Brody, Mikey Madison, Kieran Culkin, and Zoe Saldaña, among others. Last year's acting winners also returned, alongside Nicole Kidman, Sigourney Weaver, Will Arnett, and Javier Bardem. Priyanka Chopra Jonas, Anne Hathaway, Paul Mescal, Demi Moore, Kumail Nanjiani, Ewan McGregor, Chase Infiniti, Bill Pullman, and Lewis Pullman were also confirmed to present. Producers and showrunner Raj Kapoor and executive producer Katy Mullan confirmed a reunion of the *Bridesmaids* cast, featuring Maya Rudolph and 2026 Best Actress nominee Rose Byrne. Marvel stars like Robert Downey Jr., Gwyneth Paltrow, Chris Evans, and Channing Tatum were also slated to appear. Pedro Pascal, nominees Delroy Lindo and Wagner Moura, and previous Oscars host Jimmy Kimmel were on the list, with producers even teasing an appearance by "an extraterrestrial."

The *Tangled* live-action remake is expected to hit theaters sometime in 2027.