Catherine Laga’aia to Star in Disney’s Live-Action “Moana” Film!

Catherine Laga'aia and the character Moana stand side by side, both smiling, announcing Laga'aia's casting in the lead role for the movie 'Moana'.

Catherine Laga’aia has been chosen for the lead role in the “Moana” film. Disney’s highly anticipated new live-action production is shaping up its cast.

Disney is set to bring back the magic of the 2016 animated film “Moana” with a live-action adaptation, featuring Catherine Laga’aia as the adventurous Moana Waialiki. The 17-year-old actress from Sydney will embody the beloved character, showcasing Moana’s bravery and determination as she embarks on a challenging mission to save her people.

Disney’s Moana Success and New Adaptation

In 2016, Walt Disney Animation Studios released “Moana,” with actress and musician Auli’i Cravalho voicing the titular character. The film, made on a $150 million budget, grossed an impressive $687 million at the box office. The story follows Moana Waialiki, the adventurous daughter of a chief on the Polynesian island of Motunui, as she sets out on a daring journey to save her island.

Following the trend of live-action remakes of classic animations such as “Mulan,” “Cruella,” “Peter Pan & Wendy,” and “The Little Mermaid,” Disney is now focusing on the relatively recent “Moana.”

Catherine Laga’aia as Moana: Other Cast Members Revealed

Catherine Laga’aia, in the early years of her acting career, previously appeared in a three-episode arc in the Prime Video series “The Lost Flowers of Alice Hart.” Being cast as a Disney lead marks a significant milestone in her burgeoning career.

Among the confirmed cast members is Auckland-born John Tui, who will play Moana’s devoted father, Chief Tui. Frankie Adams, known for her roles in “The Expanse,” will portray Moana’s cheerful and determined mother, Sina. Experienced actress Rena Owen from New Zealand’s Bay of Islands will take on the role of Gramma Tala, and Dwayne Johnson will reprise his role as the demigod Maui.

In a statement, Laga’aia expressed her excitement:

“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.”

Director Thomas Kail, known for “Hamilton” and “Grease Live,” also shared his thoughts on the project:

“I am thrilled to have met Catherine, Rena, Frankie, and John through this casting process,” Kail said. “I am humbled by this opportunity, and I cannot wait to all be on set together. And there’s no better pair to be in a canoe with than Catherine and Dwayne—actually, trio: Heihei is ready, too.”

The live-action “Moana” film is set to hit theaters on July 10, 2026.

Share your expectations for the Catherine Laga’aia-led “Moana” film in the comments below.

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Written by 3:34 pm News, Featured

Last modified: June 15, 2024

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