Catherine Laga‘aia Cast As Moana In Disney’s Highly Anticipated Live-Action Film

Meet the newly announced cast of the live-action Moana film.

Catherine Laga’aia will be voyaging to Motunui and beyond as the adventurous teenager who sails out on a daring mission to save her people in Disney’s upcoming live-action “Moana.” “I’m really excited to embrace this character because Moana is one of my favorites,” said the 17-year-old native of Sydney, Australia. “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.”

(Pictured): Catherine Laga’aia. Photo by Alexei Hay.

The cast also includes Auckland, New Zealander John Tui as Moana’s no-nonsense father, Chief Tui; Samoan-New Zealand actress Frankie Adams portrays Moana’s playful and strong-willed mother, Sina; and Rena Owen, who hails from Bay of Islands, NZ, was cast as the revered Gramma Tala. As previously announced, Dwayne Johnson, who voiced the larger-than-life demigod Maui in the 2016 animated version of the film, will reprise his role.

The film is releasing in theaters on July 10, 2026.

“Moana” is directed by Thomas Kail. He is best known for “Hamilton” on Broadway and Disney+,and “Grease Live.” Kail said, “I am thrilled to have met Catherine, Rena, Frankie, and John through this casting process. 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, a trio: Heihei is ready, too.”

This live-action adaptation will bring to life in a whole new way.

The production begins filming this summer. It celebrates the islands, communities, and traditions of Pacific Islanders in a spectacular adventure. The live-action adaptation promises a fresh perspective while staying true to the beloved animated classic. When the film hits theaters in 2026, fans can look forward to a visually stunning and emotionally resonant journey. Don’t forget that the animated film Moana 2 releases this November!