Moana Live-Action Sets 2026 Release with Fresh New Face
The highly anticipated live-action adaptation of Disney's beloved animated film Moana is scheduled to hit theatres on July 10, 2026, bringing the Pacific Island adventure to life with a brand-new star. The production has generated significant excitement since its announcement, particularly with the revelation of its lead actress.
Meet Catherine Laga'aia: The New Moana
Seventeen-year-old Catherine Laga'aia, announced as the film's lead in June 2024, will portray the courageous voyager Moana. The Sydney, Australia native comes from an impressive entertainment lineage as the daughter of actor and writer Jay Laga'aia, known for his role in Star Wars: Attack of the Clones.
When Catherine's casting was confirmed, her father expressed immense pride on Instagram, stating: "My family and I are so pleased to share this news with the rest of the world. My daughter Katie can finally share the news that she will be taking on the role of Moana in the live-action Disney movie alongside Dwayne Johnson and Lin-Manuel Miranda."
Celebrating Samoan Heritage Through Film
Catherine's Samoan heritage makes her casting particularly meaningful. In an official press statement, she shared her cultural connections: "My grandfather comes from Fa'ala, Palauli, in Savai'i. And my grandmother is from Leulumoega Tuai on the main island of 'Upolu in Samoa. I'm honored to have an opportunity to celebrate Samoa and all Pacific Island peoples, and to represent young girls who look like me."
The young actress brings previous screen experience to the role, having appeared in The Lost Flowers of Alice Hart, where she portrayed the younger version of character Candy.
Star-Studded Cast and Production Details
Directed by Thomas Kail, the live-action Moana will feature Catherine performing the iconic song "How Far I'll Go," which became a global phenomenon following the original 2016 animated film's release.
The supporting cast includes several notable actors:
- John Tui as Moana's father Chief Tui
- Rena Owen as Gramma Tala
- Frankie Adams as Moana's mother Sina
The film promises to honor the spirit of the original while introducing the beloved story to new audiences through live-action cinematography and performances. With Dwayne Johnson returning as Maui and Lin-Manuel Miranda involved in the production, the 2026 adaptation is already generating substantial buzz among Disney enthusiasts and general moviegoers alike.
As anticipation builds toward the July 2026 release, Catherine Laga'aia's casting represents a significant milestone for Pacific Island representation in mainstream cinema, offering young viewers from similar backgrounds a hero who reflects their own experiences and cultural heritage.
