Dwayne Johnson confirms Moana live-action film is in the works

The actor revealed production and release date details for Disney's Moana live-action movie.

Dwayne Johnson has provided an update on the highly anticipated Moana live-action film, sharing on Instagram that "production begins this August" and announcing a new release date of "June 27, 2025."

Johnson, 52, confirmed his return as the demigod Maui, a role he previously voiced in the 2016 animated Moana and the 2024 sequel, Moana 2. The actor shared the casting news on Friday, July 5, along with headshots of the cast beside their animated counterparts.

 

 

 

 

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"Exciting and inspiring casting news as we begin to bring together our live action MOANA family," Johnson wrote. The post included the announcement of newcomer Catherine Laga'aia as Moana, and John Tui, who appeared in Johnson's NBC series Young Rock, as Moana's father, Chief Tui. Frankie Adams is set to play Moana's mother, Sina, and Rena Owen will portray her grandmother, Gramma Tala.

Johnson emphasized the cultural significance of the project, stating, "It’s our deepest honor to share the legends, songs, dances and traditions of our Polynesian culture with all of you and your families around the world."

The live-action film will be directed by Thomas Kail, with music composed by Lin-Manuel Miranda. Disney initially announced the cast in June and had originally slated the film for a July 10, 2026 release.