Moanastar Auli’i Cravalho talks about passing the torch to Catherine Laga’aia who will portray the titular character in the live-action remake. Cravalho originally voiced the titular Disney character in the 2016 animated film. Like many other Disney animated films,Moanais getting a live-action remake, which is set to be released in 2026. Although Dwayne Johnson will reprise his role as Maui,the live-action version of Moana will be played by Catherine Laga’aia.
While speaking withEmpire Magazine, Cravalho spoke about Laga’aia bringing Moana to life in the upcoming live-action remake. She expressed her enthusiasm for the casting, particularlythat it brings more representation of Pacific Island talent onscreen. Read her comment below:
I could count on one hand the amount of Pacific Island talent in the room [when I go to auditions]. I want more young representation, and that’s Catherine.
She also teased how the live-action movie is different from the animated version. Cravalho revealed thatthe live-action remake’s story will reflect Laga’aia’s Samoan heritage. Although Cravalho won’t play Moana in the live-action film, she is an executive producer for it. Read her full quote below:
“The stories aren’t exactly the same. [Laga’aial’s got her own history and I think that’s going to come across on screen.”
What Cravalho’s Comments Mean For The Live-Action Moana
Like Many Disney Live Action Adaptions, There Will Be Changes
Whenever Disney adapts one of their animated films to live-action, some changes are always made by adding more to the story or changing one of the side characters, like Awkwafina’s version of Scuttle in 2023’sThe Little Mermaid. The live-action version ofMoanashowcasing Samoan heritage will probably be shown more at the beginning of the filmwhen Moana is with her family on the island. The beginning of the original movie showcased Moana’s values and how important her family is to her.
Why Disney Has Recast Moana For The Live-Action Movie
Disney officially recast the character of Moana for its 2026 live-action remake, which means a new actor is following in Auliʻi Cravalho’s footsteps.
The beginning was the most grounded part of the movie before Moana went on her adventure and met Maui (a demigod) and Tamtoa (a giant crab). It was also the movie’s most relatable part, whereMoana wanted to find her place in the world. It also featured the emotional death of Moana’s grandmother, who would continue to be an important figure to her throughout the movie.
Our Take Cravalho Being Happy With Laga’aia’s Casting
It’s Always Nice To See One Actor Pass The Torch To Another
Whenever a new actor has to step into a role established by someone else, it’s always nice to see the previous star be supportive. AlthoughJohnson will return as Maui, the remakes of classic Disney animated films typically go with an entirely brand-new cast. A rare exception was James Earl Jones for 2019’sThe Lion King, but it was still a voice role. While Moana will be played by a new actor,Cravalho could still appear in a different role. For example, Jodi Benson, who voiced Ariel in the animatedThe Little Mermaid, made a cameo appearance in the 2023 version.
It’s also refreshing to see that Moana’s story in the live-action film won’t be the same as the animated one. While it will still be exciting to see those classic animated moments in live action, it will also be exciting to see what new story details will be added to the new version ofMoana.
Moana
Cast
In Disney’s live-action adaptation of “Moana,” a young Polynesian girl embarks on a daring voyage to save her people, seeking the demigod Maui’s help to restore the heart of Te Fiti.
