Who Is Catherine Lagaʻaia, Disney’s New Live-Action Moana?

Meet the Rising Teen Bringing Moana to Life in Disney’s 2026 Remake

Disney is bringing Moana back to the big screen, this time in a live-action remake, and the new face of the ocean-loving heroine is none other than Catherine Lagaʻaia! The rising Australian teen is all set to sail into theaters on July 10, 2026—literally singing “How Far I’ll Go” and starring right alongside Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, who returns as Maui.

image source: x/Disney

But wait—who exactly is Catherine, the girl taking on one of Disney’s most iconic roles?
Don’t worry, we’ve got the tea.

1. Catherine Lagaʻaia Was Just 17 When She Was Cast as Moana

Disney officially confirmed her casting in June 2024, and at that time, Catherine was only 17 years old. Imagine landing one of the biggest roles in Hollywood before turning 18. A total star-in-the-making moment.

image source: x/Disney

2. She Already Has Acting Experience—And It’s Pretty Impressive

If the name feels familiar, there’s a reason. Catherine appeared in three episodes of the series The Lost Flowers of Alice Hart, where she played Young Candy. Not bad for someone who’s just starting her career.

image source: x/Disney

3. Her Dad Is a Star Wars Actor (!)

Yep, acting is literally in her DNA. Catherine is the daughter of Jay Lagaʻaia, who played Captain Typho in Star Wars: Episode II – Attack of the Clones and Episode III – Revenge of the Sith. He’s also known for Daybreakers and even created his own kids’ series, Jay’s Jungle.

And he’s definitely a proud dad.
When Catherine’s casting was announced, Jay posted a heartfelt message saying his daughter—whom he affectionately calls “Katie”—can finally share her big news with the world.

image source: x/Disney

He also celebrated the rest of the cast:

• John Tui as Chief Tui

• Frankie Adams as Sina

• Rena Owen as Gramma Tala

Basically, the Pacific Island representation is STRONG.

4. Catherine Is of Proud Samoan Descent

One of the most beautiful parts of her casting? Catherine’s real connection to the culture Moana represents.
In Disney’s announcement, she shared:

“My grandfather comes from Fa‘aala, Palauli, in Savai‘i. And my grandmother is from Leulumoega Tuai on the main island of ‘Upolu in Samoa.”

image source: x/Disney

She went on to say she’s “honored to celebrate Samoa and all Pacific Island peoples, and to represent young girls who look like me.”

And honestly, what could be more Moana than that?