Disney Casts a New Actress to Play Moana

Disney’s live-action Moana is in the works. And, now we know who will portray one of Disney’s most popular princesses. Here are all the details.

Live Action Moana

Make way! Not only is Moana 2 coming to theaters soon (details HERE), but audiences can also expect to see a live-action version of one of Disney’s most popular animated films.

The live-action Moana is expected to be released in theaters on July 10, 2026. It is following along with the many other Disney animated stories that have received live-action makeovers.

It is true that live-action adaptations of beloved animated movies have been polarizing among audiences. People love to hate them. Some have been box office flops; however, some have been hugely successful. Aladdin (2019), for example, raked in over a billion dollars.

Moana Casting Updates

It seems as if one of the indicators of success for Disney reboots is how closely Disney sticks to the original story that fans already know and love. Nostalgia is a powerful force, after all.

So, it is not surprising that Dwayne Johnson, who voiced demigod Maui in the animated version of the film, will return to reprise his role. Disney confirmed this casting decision yesterday and made an even bigger announcement.

Who Will Play Moana

Disney welcomes Catherine Laga‘aia to play Moana. The 17-year-old actress lives in Sydney, Australia. However, she feels strong ties to the Pacific Islands. Her grandmother is from Leulumoega Tuai in Samoa and her grandfather comes from Fa‘aala, Palauli, in Savai‘i.

Actress Catherine Laga‘aia will play Moana.

Joining her will be John Tui as Chief Tui and Frankie Adams as Moana’s mother Sina. Rena Owen will play Gramma Tala.

If you worry you will miss Auli‘i Cravalho, who voiced Moana in the 2016 film, we have great news for you! She is also involved with the project as an executive producer.

Are you excited to see the live-action version of Moana? Let us know in the comments. And, be sure to pass the news along to your friends and family who are looking forward to learning more about the movie so they can stay up to date.