Live-action Moana remake secures its two lead actors

The live-action Moana remake, set to release on July 10, 2026, has officially cast Catherine Laga’aia as the lead actress. Disney announced that Dwayne 'The Rock' Johnson will reprise his role as Maui. Joining them are John Tui as Chief Tui, Frankie Adams as Sina, and Rena Owen as Gramma Tala. Directed by Thomas Kail and written by Jared Bush and Dana Ledoux Miller, the movie aims to capture the magic of the original 2016 animated film with a celebrated Pacific Islander cast.

Disney appears to be aiming for a blend of nostalgia and cultural representation, capitalizing on the success of the original film while introducing live-action elements that could attract a new audience. Additionally, with the success of other live-action remakes, Disney is likely hoping for a major box office hit.

Moana (2016), directed by Ron Clements and John Musker, was a massive success, grossing over $600 million worldwide. Its story celebrates Polynesian culture, following the journey of a young girl named Moana who sets out to save her people. Featuring iconic songs by Lin-Manuel Miranda, the film's impact remains strong, making the live-action remake a highly anticipated project.