In Moana 2026, which actress plays the title character?

In *Moana* (2026), Catherine Laga'aia plays the title character, Moana.

Laga'aia was cast in June 2024, making the live-action film her feature-film debut. The production selected a young actor of Samoan and Māori heritage for the role, reflecting the story’s Pacific setting and its emphasis on Polynesian culture. Dwayne Johnson returns as Maui, the demigod who accompanies Moana on her voyage.

This casting is separate from the animated films. Auli'i Cravalho voiced Moana in the 2016 animated movie and *Moana 2*; she is associated with the character but does not play the live-action title role. In the 2026 film, Cravalho is involved musically, while Laga'aia portrays Moana on screen.

The remake revisits Moana’s journey from Motunui beyond the reef, where she seeks to restore prosperity to her people. Its scheduled release date is July 10, 2026, the tenth anniversary of the original animated film.