Exciting news from Walt Disney Studios! Disney has just announced the casting of Catherine Laga’aia in the much-anticipated live-action “Moana” movie. Laga’aia, brimming with excitement over this new adventure, will breathe life into the beloved character of Moana, the indomitable and ocean-spirited teenager. She will be joined by Dwayne Johnson, who will once again wield his iconic fishhook as Maui, the fun-loving Polynesian demigod.
Laga’aia shared how deeply connected she feels to Moana, stating, “I’m really excited to embrace this character because Moana is one of my favorites.” She added a personal touch by connecting her heritage to the role, “My grandfather comes from Fa’aala, Palauli, in Savai’i. And my grandmother is from Leulumoega Tuai on the main island of ‘Upolu in Samoa. I’m honored to have an opportunity to celebrate Samoa and all Pacific Island peoples, and to represent young girls who look like me.”
Alongside Laga’aia and Johnson, the cast features other stellar talents, including John Tui from Auckland, New Zealand, portraying Chief Tui, Moana’s steadfast father. Frankie Adams, a Samoan-New Zealand actress, will play Moana’s spirited mother, Sina, while Rena Owen from Bay of Islands, NZ, is set to enchant audiences as the revered Gramma Tala.
Director Thomas Kail is thrilled about the dynamic cast, expressing his eagerness to begin production this summer. “I cannot wait to all be on set together. And there’s no better pair to be in a canoe with than Catherine and Dwayne—actually, trio: Heihei is ready, too.” Adding further magic to the project, Lin-Manuel Miranda, who composed the songs for the 2016 animated film, will serve as a producer. Auli’i Cravalho, the original voice of Moana, will join the team as an executive producer.
Fans won’t have to wait too long to dive back into the lore of Moana, as “Moana 2,” the sequel to the original animated movie, is set to hit theaters this Thanksgiving with the original cast returning. Be sure to catch the first teaser released—it’s simply breathtaking.
Mark your calendars! Disney’s live-action “Moana” is slated for a grand premiere on July 10, 2026.
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