“This tradition is our mission,” as the iconic line from Disney's ‘Moana' reminds us, and it resonates deeply in the casting of Catherine Laga‘aia as Moana in the upcoming live-action adaptation. Alongside Dwayne Johnson returning as Maui, Catherine Laga‘aia, the Samoan, Sydney, Australia native eagerly steps into the role of Moana.
“I'm really excited to embrace this character because Moana is one of my favorites,” said Laga‘aia, a 17-year-old from Sydney, Australia. “My grandfather comes from Faala, 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.”
Laga‘aia and Johnson are joined by John Tui from Auckland, New Zealand, portraying Moana's father, Chief Tui; Frankie Adams, a Samoan-New Zealand actor, as Moana's mother, Sina; and Rena Owen from Bay of Islands, New Zealand, playing the revered Gramma Tala.
The live-action adaptation was announced last April, confirming Johnson's return as star and producer. “Moana” is scheduled to start filming this summer for its anticipated release on July 10, 2026, under the direction of Thomas Kail (known for “Hamilton” on Broadway and Disney+, “Grease Live,” and “We Were the Lucky Ones”). We are thrilled about the Pasifika representation in this highly anticipated film, celebrating our community with an all-Pasifika cast. We eagerly await the day when this cultural celebration comes to life. Best wishes to the cast, crew, and all involved in bringing this project to fruition. As Moana beautifully sings, “My home, my people beside me, and when I think of tomorrow, there we are.”
Images provided by the featured individuals or sourced from their public social media profiles and online platforms. All rights remain with the original creators. Originally published in PMN+ Magazine, July 2024 (Vol. 1 No. 3).
July 2024 · Digital Magazine
