Disney Casts Catherine Lagaʻaia as the New Moana for 2026

The New Moana, the Cast, and Everything Fans Need to Know

Disney fans, get ready—because the live-action Moana is officially surfing into theaters on July 10, 2026, and we finally know who’s playing the beloved ocean-loving heroine. And she’s absolutely perfect for the role.

image source: x/Disney

So… who is the new Moana girl?
Say hello to Catherine Lagaʻaia, a 17-year-old actress from Sydney, Australia, with proud Samoan roots. She’s fresh, talented, and overflowing with the exact island spirit Disney wanted for the role. And yes—her casting instantly broke the internet.

image source: x/Disney

Disney made a big promise to stay culturally authentic, and Catherine’s deep connection to her Pacific Island heritage was a huge reason she landed the role. She’s already shared how honored she feels to represent Samoan and Pacific Island girls who rarely get to see themselves in global blockbuster films. Total queen moment.

This feels like…. someone fed the original animated #Moana into AI and said make it live action ????

pic.twitter.com/J2qVPOpMYc

— Grace Randolph (@GraceRandolph) November 17, 2025

Of course, Moana wouldn’t be complete without Maui—and guess what? Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson is back! He’s not only returning as Maui but also helping produce the film. Basically, the man is doing it all.

image source: x/Disney

Here’s your quick look at the main cast:

• Catherine Lagaʻaia as Moana – The brave, curious chief’s daughter who can’t ignore the call of the ocean

• Dwayne Johnson as Maui – The legendary demigod with a giant hook and an even bigger personality

• John Tui as Chief Tui – Moana’s super-strict, super-loving dad

• Frankie Adams as Sina – Moana’s warm, spirited mother

• Rena Owen as Gramma Tala – Everyone’s favorite wise grandmother (and low-key the real MVP of the story)

image source: x/Disney

Behind the camera, things get even more exciting. The film is directed by Thomas Kail, the Tony-winning mastermind behind Hamilton and Grease Live. The producing dream team includes Dwayne Johnson, Dany Garcia, Hiram Garcia, Beau Flynn, Lin-Manuel Miranda (yup—he’s back for the music!), and even Auliʻi Cravalho, the original animated Moana, as executive producer. Talk about a powerhouse squad.

Filming started in Hawaii, and the production team is putting serious heart into celebrating the traditions, communities, and beauty of the Pacific Islands. From the breathtaking landscapes to the iconic songs, everything aims to feel both familiar and fresh.

Disney also dropped our first look at the movie—a minute-long clip showing Catherine as Moana, Maui’s big entrance, and even the chaotic-cute Kakamora tribe. And yes, fans are already replaying it a thousand times.

image source: x/Disney

In this version, Moana once again answers the ocean’s call and sails beyond her island’s reef for the very first time. With Maui by her side, she sets off on a wild adventure to restore prosperity to Motunui—and discovers her true destiny along the way.

If the early footage is any hint, this live-action take is ready to make waves (pun fully intended). Catherine Lagaʻaia is clearly the perfect choice to lead the next era of Moana—and we’re absolutely here for it.