Disney has announced the cast of the upcoming live-action version of "Moana." In a press release on June 12, Disney announced that 17-year-old Catherine Laga'aia will play the titular role. Disney had previously confirmed both the live-action adaptation of the 2016 animated movie and an animated sequel.
Disney announced the live-action remake of its Oscar-nominated film on X last April. Dwayne Johnson, who played the demigod Maui in the original animated movie, helped announce the live-action film, connecting it back to his own Samoan heritage. “As many of you know .
.. we found so much inspiration for Maui in the mana and the presence of my late grandfather, the legendary High Chief Peter Maivia," Johnson shared.
Here’s what we know about the live-action "Moana." When is the live-action 'Moana' coming out? The movie will premiere on July 10, 2026, Disney said in the June 12 press release. The cast will begin filming this summer.
Who is playing Moana in the live-action version? Disney announced June 12 that Catherine Laga'aia will play the live-action Moana in the upcoming film. "I’m really excited to embrace this character because Moana is one of my favorites," the 17-year-old Sydney, Australia, native said in a press release. "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 you.
