If you're wondering who is playing Moana in the live-action remake, you’re in good company — it’s one of the biggest questions among Disney fans. The live-action version of Moana is officially on the way, and Disney has tapped new talent to bring this beloved Polynesian wayfinder to life on the big screen. Here’s the latest, backed by reliable sources, and what it means for fans across the U.S.
Casting the New Moana: Catherine Laga’aia
Disney has cast Catherine Laga’aia, a 17-year-old actress from Sydney, Australia, as the titular character in the live-action Moana.
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Laga’aia has Samoan heritage: her grandfather is from Fa‘aala, Palauli in Savai‘i, and her grandmother is from Leulumoega Tuai in ‘Upolu, Samoa.
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In making the announcement, she expressed how “honored” she is to represent Pacific Island peoples and young girls who look like her.
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This will be her first major film role, marking an exciting and culturally meaningful debut.
Why Not Auliʻi Cravalho?
You may remember Auliʻi Cravalho, the voice of Moana in the original 2016 animated film. However, she won’t be starring in the live-action version.
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Cravalho confirmed she won’t be reprising her role but remains deeply involved as an executive producer.
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She emphasized the importance of representation, stating it was “absolutely vital” for Disney to find a young woman of Pacific Island descent to carry Moana’s legacy.
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By passing the baton, she’s supporting the next generation of Pacific Island talent to shine.
Returning Hero: Dwayne Johnson as Maui
Good news for fans of the demigod: Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson is coming back to play Maui in the live-action remake — this time in a live-action form, not just voice work.
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Johnson isn’t just acting — he’s also a producer on the film through his Seven Bucks Productions.
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His involvement adds weight and experience to the film, and his personal connection to Polynesian culture makes the casting choice resonate more deeply.
Supporting Cast & Production Details
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Chief Tui (Moana’s father) is being played by John Tui.
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Sina, Moana’s mother, will be portrayed by Frankie Adams.
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Gramma Tala will be played by Rena Owen.
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The live-action Moana is directed by Thomas Kail, known for his work on Hamilton.
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It’s set for a U.S. theatrical release on July 10, 2026.
Why This Casting Matters
Disney’s choice demonstrates cultural care: casting Laga’aia, who has genuine Pacific Island roots, shows commitment to authenticity.
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The production team, led by Kail and Johnson, brings experience from Hamilton and major blockbuster projects — meaning they know how to balance spectacle and heart.
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Credible sources reported the casting news widely.
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This isn’t a rumor: filming already took place in places like Hawaii and Atlanta.
The decision to recast instead of using digital tricks or miscasting aligns with modern storytelling values and respect for representation.
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With Cravalho serving as executive producer, there's a respectful handoff and continuity of the original Moana spirit.
What This Means for U.S. Audiences
For U.S.-based fans, this casting is significant in several ways:
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Representation and inclusivity: Catherine Laga’aia’s casting resonates with Pacific Islanders in the U.S., who often lack screen representation.
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Family movie appeal: With Johnson, Kail, and the producers’ experience, this promises to be a major summer blockbuster — a safe bet for family movie night.
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Cultural education: The remake has the potential to bring Polynesian traditions, wayfinding, and stories to broader American audiences more vividly than ever.
What to Watch For
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Trailers: Keep an eye out for the first official trailer, which will likely drop in late 2025 (or earlier), to avoid confusing it with fan-made versions.
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Soundtrack updates: With Lin-Manuel Miranda returning to help produce, fans are eager to see how iconic songs like “How Far I’ll Go” may be adapted or reimagined.
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Marketing & promotion: As we get closer to July 2026, expect behind-the-scenes content, interviews, and press events that further explore the film’s cultural roots.
So, who is playing Moana in the live-action remake? It’s Catherine Laga’aia, a talented young actress with deep Pacific Island heritage. With Dwayne Johnson reprising his role as Maui and a strong supporting cast, the film looks poised to honor the spirit of the original Moana while bringing fresh energy and authenticity.
This casting is not just about star power — it’s about representation, cultural respect, and crafting an epic summer movie that resonates with audiences in the U.S. and beyond.