Over a 12 months after it was introduced that Disney was giving the live-action remake therapy to the 2016 animated movie Moana, the corporate introduced as we speak that it has solid Australian actress Catherine Laga’aia to star because the titular character.
In a press launch, Disney revealed that Laga’aia would be the adventurous teenager within the live-action Moana remake, which is ready to hit theatres on July 10, 2026. “I’m actually excited to embrace this character as a result of Moana is one in every of my favorites,” Laga’aia stated. “My grandfather comes from Fa’aala, Palauli, in Savai’i. And my grandmother is from Leulumoega Tuai on the principle island of ‘Upolu in Samoa. I’m honored to have a chance to rejoice Samoa and all Pacific Island peoples, and to characterize younger ladies who appear to be me.”
Laga’aia’s casting comes as no shock to anybody following the movie’s manufacturing. Auli’i Cravalho, who voiced Moana within the 2016 animated movie, revealed on Instagram in May 2023 that she wouldn’t reprise her function however would function an govt producer for the remake.
Disney introduced a live-action Moana remake in April 2023, the place it additionally confirmed that Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson would return to the venture, reprising his function as Maui, who Johnson beforehand voiced within the unique movie. Joining Johnson and Laga’aia within the movie are John Tui as Moana’s father, Chief Tui, Frankie Adams because the character’s mom, Sina, and Rena Own, who will play Gramma Tala. The three New Zealand actors will be part of the main duo when filming begins this summer season.
Moana isn’t the one property that was as soon as an animated movie and tailored into live-action. In latest years, Disney has been offering live-action remakes of a number of of its beloved animated movies, corresponding to Aladdin, Mulan, The Little Mermaid, and The Lion King. Some upcoming live-action remakes Disney has within the pipeline, along with Moana, embody Snow White, Bambi, and Hercules.
For extra, take a look at our piece detailing each new Disney and Pixar movie popping out in 2024 and past.
Taylor is a Reporter at IGN. You can observe her on Twitter @TayNixster.
