Catherine Lagaʻaia, a 17-year-old Australian actress of Samoan heritage, has been cast as Moana in Disney’s highly anticipated live-action remake, set to hit theaters on July 10, 2026. (Awn)
Why Catherine Lagaʻaia Was Chosen
Lagaʻaia brings a deeply personal connection to the role. She shared that her grandfather is from Fa‘aala, Palauli, in Savai‘i, and her grandmother comes from Leulumoega Tuai in ‘Upolu, Samoa. (ABC) She expressed how honored she is to represent Samoa and Pacific Island communities, and especially to be a role model for young girls who look like her. (ABC Audio Digital)
It’s a New Generation, Not a Recast
The original voice of Moana, Auliʻi Cravalho, will not reprise her role on-screen. Instead, she’s stepping into an executive producer role for the live-action film — a symbolic “passing of the torch” to Lagaʻaia. (TheWrap) Cravalho has spoken publicly about how meaningful it was to pass this opportunity on to another young Pacific Islander. (TheWrap)
Behind the Scenes: What the Film Will Be Like
- Direction & Production: The film is directed by Thomas Kail (known for Hamilton), and produced by heavyweights including Dwayne Johnson, Lin-Manuel Miranda, and Beau Flynn. (press.disney.co.uk)
- Writing Approach: According to co-writer Dana Ledoux Miller, the live-action version leans into the “visceral nature” of a real-world setting — portraying Moana’s journey not just as mythic, but emotionally grounded and human. (Collider)
- Supporting Cast: Joining Lagaʻaia are Dwayne Johnson reprising his role as Maui, John Tui as Chief Tui (Moana’s father), Frankie Adams as Sina (her mother), and Rena Owen as Gramma Tala. (Awn)
What Makes Catherine Lagaʻaia a Standout
- Representation Matter: Her casting is meaningful not just for her talent, but for cultural representation — she’s proud to honor her Samoan heritage and reflect that in a global Disney film. (CNA Lifestyle)
- Newcomer Energy: Despite her young age, she’s already shown promise — she acted in the Prime Video series The Lost Flowers of Alice Hart. (ABC)
- Authentic Voice: Her real-life background brings authenticity to Moana’s character — not just in appearance, but in cultural roots and connection to Polynesian identity.
Official Teaser: Watch It Here
Here’s the official teaser for the live-action Moana (2026), featuring Catherine Lagaʻaia in her debut as the wayfinder:
In the teaser, you can glimpse:
- Moana navigating the ocean, a reflection of her deep bond with the sea.
- The iconic line “I am Moana” delivered in a more tangible, live-action world.
- A brief appearance of Maui (played by Dwayne Johnson) — hinting at a blend of magic and adventure.
What Fans Are Buzzing About (Trending Angle)
- Representation & Legacy: Many are celebrating Disney’s choice to cast a young Pacific Islander actress whose roots echo Moana’s own identity.
- Passing the Torch: Auliʻi Cravalho’s transition to producer is being framed as an inspiring handoff rather than replacement — resonating deeply on social media.
- Visual Scale Up: The teaser’s visuals — from crashing waves to island panoramas — sparked excitement over how grand and cinematic this live-action Moana might be.
Bottom Line
Catherine Lagaʻaia’s casting as Moana is more than just a name — it’s a statement. She embodies cultural authenticity, the next generation of Pacific storytelling, and the spirit of adventure that Moana has always stood for. With the teaser now live and a July 2026 release date, the buzz is only growing.