Disney’s Live-Action ‘Moana’ and ‘Moana 2’ Set for Future Releases

Disney is in the process of bringing «Moana» to life in a live-action adaptation, set to be released in theaters on July 10, 2026. The production of the live-action film is underway in Hawaii, with Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson reprising his role as the demigod Maui from the original animated version. Recently, Johnson was photographed in full costume, including his character’s trademark tattoos, grass skirt, and traditional jewelry, as he filmed scenes along a Hawaiian beach.

Johnson, who is also a producer on the live-action adaptation, first announced the project during Disney’s April 2023 shareholder meeting. The original «Moana» animated film was released in 2016 to critical acclaim, and since then, it has maintained a strong following.

Catherine Laga’aia has been cast as Moana in the upcoming live-action film. Laga’aia expressed her enthusiasm for the role, highlighting her Samoan heritage and the significance of representing Pacific Island cultures. «I’m really excited to embrace this character because Moana is one of my favorites,» Laga’aia stated. «I’m honored to have an opportunity to celebrate Samoa and all Pacific Island peoples, and to represent young girls who look like me,» she added.

Joining Laga’aia in the cast are John Tui, who will play Moana’s father Chief Tui, Frankie Adams as her mother Sina, and Rena Owen as Gramma Tala. The announcement marks the start of production with a cast dedicated to bringing authenticity to the beloved story.

Meanwhile, «Moana 2,» the animated sequel, is scheduled for release on November 27, 2026. Auli'i Cravalho will reprise her role as the voice of Moana, continuing the story of the young Polynesian princess. Johnson shared his excitement on Instagram, noting, «When life gets tough ~ if you wanna get through it, you just gotta CHEE HOOO it.»

Both projects aim to deliver empowering messages, particularly focusing on female empowerment, a theme central to the Moana franchise. Johnson elaborated on this theme, saying that the story of Moana and its sequel emphasizes the freedom and potential young girls have to be anything they aspire to in life.