Image Credit: ©Disney
We’re about to witness Moana’s journey on the silver screen once more — but this time around, she’ll be portrayed in live-action! Disney is gearing up to unveil its fresh take on Moana in 2026, with Catherine Laga’aia headlining as the main character. Moreover, devotees are overjoyed that Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson is reprising his role as Maui.
Catherine was merely 17 when she secured the highly desired part of Moana, according to a media release from the Walt Disney Company in 2024.
“My paternal grandfather originates from Fa‘aala, Palauli, situated in Savai‘i. And my maternal grandmother is from Leulumoega Tuai on the primary island of ‘Upolu in Samoa,” Catherine expressed. “I feel deeply privileged to be able to honor Samoa and all communities of the Pacific Islands, and to act as a representative for young females who share my appearance.”
Her father, Jay Laga‘aia, an actor and author, couldn’t contain his enthusiasm regarding his daughter’s prominent cinematic endeavor.
“My loved ones and I are incredibly thrilled to disseminate this announcement to the world,” Jay shared on Instagram at that moment. “My daughter Katie is now able to reveal the information that she will be embodying the character of Moana in the live-action Disney movie, co-starring alongside Dwayne Johnson and [producer] Lin-Manuel Miranda,” Jay wrote in his caption. “Also becoming a part of the ensemble with Laga‘aia and Johnson are Auckland, New Zealander John Tui as Moana’s father, Chief Tui; Samoan-New Zealand performer Frankie Adams as Moana’s mother, Sina; and Rena Owen, who comes from Bay of Islands, New Zealand, as the respected Gramma Tala. Heartfelt congratulations to John Tui and his significant other on the recent growth of their family, too.”
Presented below, Hollywood Life has put together all the particulars you need to understand about the live-action rendition of Moana.
When Does the Moana Live-Action Movie Premiere?
The live-action Moana is slated for its theatrical release on July 10, 2026.
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Will I Be Able to Stream Moana on Disney+?
Indeed, but only after it appears in cinemas! The live-action adaptation will initially premiere in theaters. As of the present moment, enthusiasts are able to stream both Moana and Moana 2 on Disney+.
Who Is in the Moana Live-Action Cast?
As previously indicated, Dwayne is returning to his much-loved role as Maui, while Catherine is taking on the role of Moana. They are joined by colleagues John Tui portraying Chief Tui, Frankie Adams portraying Sina, and Rena Owen portraying Gramma Tala.