Disney casts a new Moana in Live-action remake

Disney has announced the casting of Catherine Laga'aia, a 17-year-old actress from Sydney, Australia, as the lead role in the live-action remake of Moana. The film is slated to release globally on July 10, 2026, while an animated sequel, Moana 2, is scheduled to premiere this Thanksgiving.

Laga'aia expressed her excitement about the role, saying, "I'm really excited to embrace this character because Moana is one of my favorites." With Samoan heritage through her grandparents, she feels honoured to "celebrate Samoa and all Pacific Island peoples, and to represent young girls who look like me."

Joining Laga'aia in the cast are John Tui as Chief Tui (Moana's father), Frankie Adams as Sina (Moana's mother), and Rena Owen as Gramma Tala. Thomas Kail, known for directing "Hamilton," "Grease Live," and "We Were the Lucky Ones," will direct the live-action adaptation.

The live-action Moana promises to be a visually stunning and culturally rich adventure, continuing the legacy of the beloved animated original.