Discover the latest news on Disney’s live action Moana hitting theaters in July 2026. Meet new Moana star Catherine Laga’aia, explore the cast, fresh trailer details, and ongoing updates on this oceanic adventure.
Moana: Live Action—A New Chapter Begins
Disney continues its wave of live action remakes with Moana, arriving in theaters July 10, 2026. The project has captured global attention, especially after the recent release of Moana 2 in 2024, which became an instant animated classic. Now, the brand sets course for a live-action adventure, keeping Moana at the heart of family entertainment for another decade.
Headliner Spotlight
- Dwayne Johnson returns as Maui, both starring and producing.
- Catherine Laga’aia begins her big-screen journey as Moana.
- Auli’i Cravalho moves into an executive role, supporting the new generation.
- John Tui, Frankie Adams, and Rena Owen round out an all-Pacific Islander main cast.
Alan Tudyk, known for his voice work as Heihei, will not return. Instead, the live-action film aims to freshen the supporting cast while holding onto original magic.
New Moana, New Star
In this adaptation, newcomer Catherine Laga’aia will make her major debut as Moana. Laga’aia brings both fresh energy and cultural authenticity to the role, stepping into shoes first filled by Auli’i Cravalho in the 2016 original animation.
Cravalho is now actively involved as an executive producer, lending her experience and support to the new cast. The casting has been widely celebrated for honoring Polynesian backgrounds, which is integral to Moana’s story.
The Live Action Moana Cast
Moana: Catherine Laga’aia
Maui: Dwayne Johnson
Supporting Cast: John Tui, Frankie Adams, Rena Owen
Auli’i Cravalho—original Moana—serves as executive producer, shaping the vision from behind the scenes.
Thomas Kail, renowned for his direction of “Hamilton,” takes the director’s chair. Lin-Manuel Miranda, composer of the animated film’s chart-topping music, also returns, ensuring the live action Moana (2026) will be filled with lively rhythms and moving lyrics.
Disney Moana Live Action Trailer: First Reactions
The live action Moana trailer, released on November 17, 2025, has generated mixed reactions across the internet.
The footage reveals stunning Hawaiian landscapes, Catherine Laga’aia’s transformation, and Dwayne Johnson’s familiar charisma as Maui. Although some fans worry the remake comes too soon after the original, many praise the respectful casting and commitment to Polynesian culture.
Sneak peeks from the trailer and set photos show Laga’aia recreating iconic moments—talking to the ocean, braving the waves, and, with Maui, preparing for epic adventures.
Behind the Scenes: Set Photos and Production
Filming for the live action remake began in Hawaii and wrapped by late 2024. Leaked set images reveal several iconic scenes, including Moana standing by her boat with her signature sail. In one notable leak, Maui’s hook is visible, and both main characters share an emotional moment by the shore. Director Kail has spoken about the joy of working with the cast and the importance of telling a story rooted in Polynesian heritage.
Fan Buzz: Reception and Debate
Fans are both excited and skeptical about Disney’s quick turnaround for the live-action version—Moana will be under a decade old when the new adaptation debuts. Some call the move a “clear money grab,” but others point to the franchise’s proven success, especially with Moana 2’s $1.059 billion box office performance. Supporters hope the remake leads to greater cultural outreach and broader opportunities for Pacific Islander talent.
Moana 2 and the Future of the Franchise
Moana 2, released in 2024, kept audiences thrilled and set new records at the box office. With talk of a possible Moana 3, Disney continues to invest in the franchise, using both animated and live action projects to build a bigger legacy. The live action film is positioned not just as entertainment, but also as a showcase for Polynesian traditions, art, and voices.
Meet Catherine Laga’aia: New Moana Star
Catherine Laga’aia, of Samoan and Tongan descent, grew up inspired by stories of the ocean. Her casting fulfills a dream for many young Pacific Islanders hoping to see themselves represented on the big screen. Cravalho has publicly welcomed her successor and expressed confidence in Laga’aia’s ability to “shine” in the iconic role. Disney, director Kail, and the entire crew have emphasized their commitment to authenticity and community throughout production.
What’s New in the Moana Live Action Story?
While some plot details remain under wraps, leaks and production comments suggest deeper exploration of Moana’s emotional journey. The live action film will keep most of the animated classic’s story, but expand on emotional moments, and potentially explore new themes connected to family and leadership. The screenplay is said to “add emotional detail” not fully explored before, giving audiences both nostalgia and new insights.
When Will the Live-Action Moana Trailer Drop?
The first Disney Moana live action trailer is already out, offering the world an early glimpse of Catherine Laga’aia as Moana and Dwayne Johnson as Maui. Fans can expect more teasers in the months leading up to the film’s July 2026 premiere.
Moana Live Action Release Date and Theatrical Plans
Moana Live Action Release Date: July 10, 2026.
Disney has locked in the summer slot, aiming for a spectacular cinematic experience for fans of all ages. Post-production is set to run throughout 2025, with additional music, special effects, and final edits bringing ocean adventures to life.
Latest News and Ongoing Developments
- The first official trailer launched on November 17, 2025, fueling discussions on social media.
- Set photos of Catherine Laga’aia in Moana’s iconic costume have sparked excitement and debates over the film’s faithful visual style.
- Disney executives and the creative team continue to emphasize the story’s cultural importance.
- With Moana 2’s ongoing box office success, the franchise remains a centerpiece of Disney’s film strategy heading into 2026.