Disney has announced that Australian actress Catherine Laga’aia will star as the titular character in the live-action remake of the 2016 animated film Moana. This exciting news comes over a year after Disney first revealed its plans for the remake. The movie is set to hit theatres on July 10, 2026, and fans are eagerly awaiting its release.
Catherine Laga’aia expressed her enthusiasm for the role in a recent press release. “I’m really excited to embrace this character because Moana is one of my favorites,” Laga’aia shared. “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.”
Laga’aia’s casting has been anticipated by many who have been following the film’s production. The original voice of Moana, Auli’i Cravalho, revealed in May 2023 that she would not be reprising her role but would instead serve as an executive producer for the remake. Cravalho’s involvement ensures that the new film will stay true to the spirit of the original while bringing a fresh perspective.
Disney first announced the live-action Moana remake in April 2023, confirming that Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson would return to the project. Johnson, who voiced Maui in the original film, will reprise his role in the live-action adaptation. The film’s cast also includes John Tui as Moana’s father, Chief Tui; Frankie Adams as her mother, Sina; and Rena Owen as Gramma Tala. These three New Zealand actors will join Laga’aia and Johnson when filming begins this summer.
Disney has a history of adapting its beloved animated films into live-action movies. In recent years, the company has released live-action versions of Aladdin, Mulan, The Little Mermaid, and The Lion King. Upcoming live-action remakes include Snow White, Bambi, and Hercules. This trend demonstrates Disney’s commitment to reimagining its classic stories for new audiences while retaining the magic that made the originals so popular.
The announcement of Catherine Laga’aia as the lead in Moana adds to the excitement surrounding the film. Her background and connection to Samoa bring authenticity to the role, celebrating the rich culture of the Pacific Islands. As fans look forward to the release of Moana in 2026, they can anticipate a film that honors its predecessor while introducing new elements and perspectives.
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