The internet chatters suggesting that the 'Mean Girls' actress could play Rapunzel in 'Tangled' remake have ignited vicious racist trolling against the South Asian star on social media.
- Apr 10, 2024
AceShowbiz - Rapunzel rumors have sparked a frenzy among "Tangled" enthusiasts, who have taken to social media to speculate on potential actors for a live-action remake. However, one fan account's now-deleted post sparked a controversy involving "Mean Girls" actress Avantika Vandanapu.
The post claimed that Vandanapu, who is of South Asian descent, and actor Milo Manheim were cast as Rapunzel and Flynn Rider, respectively. This led to widespread backlash on multiple platforms, with some users expressing racist sentiments and declaring that Vandanapu was unsuitable for the role because she is not blonde.
Vandanapu's fans additionally sprang to her defense, arguing that her physical appearance did not diminish her suitability for the role. They emphasized that Rapunzel's ethnicity and hair color are not defining characteristics, and that her personality and traits should be the primary considerations.
Critics have defended their opposition to casting actors of color by adhering to the original storylines, citing Rapunzel's German origin. However, experts have pointed out that the origins of the "Rapunzel" fairytale are not strictly European, with versions existing in various cultures around the world.
The actress's fellow "Never Have I Ever" star, Maitreyi Ramakrishnan, also condemned the racist comments. She mocked the trolls, "They finally woke up to realize it was all just rumours and the sources never existed. good job! and to the racists, y'all still need a hobby fr [clown emoji]."
The backlash against Vandanapu's potential casting echoes similar incidents involving actresses like Halle Bailey, who faced criticism when cast as Ariel in "The Little Mermaid."
Most recently, Tom Holland's West End production "Romeo & Juliet" also faced outcry over its diverse cast. Francesca Amewudah-Rivers who was cast as Juliet has to endure racial abuse on the internet.
While Holland kept mum, which earned him criticism, more than 800 black actors including Lashana Lynch have united to show support for Amewudah-Rivers. "The racist and misogynistic abuse directed at such a sweet soul has been too much to bear," the letter read.
"For a casting announcement of a play to ignite such twisted ugly abuse is truly embarrassing for those so empty and barren in their own lives that they must meddle in hateful abuse," it continued. "Too many times Black performers - particularly Black actresses - are left to face the storm of online abuse after committing the crime of getting a job on their own."
The debate has highlighted the pervasive issue of racism in society, even in the realm of entertainment. Some have argued that the rejection of actors of color for traditional roles is rooted in prejudice rather than a genuine desire to preserve the accuracy of the original stories. They maintain that the casting of diverse actors can provide opportunities for children of all backgrounds to see themselves represented on screen.
Currently, there is no official confirmation of a live-action "Tangled" remake. However, Vandanapu has expressed her excitement for working with Disney in a fantasy princess project, entitled "A Crown of Wishes."
