Disney Announces Live-Action Moana Remake With Original Star Returning

Disney has officially announced a live-action remake of its 2016 animated hit Moana, with original voice star Auli'i Cravalho serving as executive producer and Dwayne Johnson returning through his Seven Bucks Productions. The project continues Disney's strategy of reimagining animated classics, following recent successes like The Little Mermaid and Aladdin.

Key details about the remake:

• Targeting summer 2026 release
• Original composers Lin-Manuel Miranda, Opetaia Foa'i returning
• Extensive location shooting planned across Polynesia
• New songs being developed alongside classic tracks

Cravalho, who voiced Moana at age 14, confirmed she won't star in the live-action version but will help cast the new lead: \"It's important we find someone who authentically represents Pacific Islanders and honors Moana's spirit. I'm excited to shepherd this transition.\"

Johnson, who voiced demigod Maui in the original, hasn't confirmed if he'll reprise his role onscreen but stated: \"We're deeply committed to getting this right - the culture, the music, the heart. Moana's story means so much to so many, especially across Polynesia.\"

The original Moana earned $643 million worldwide and spawned the Oscar-nominated song \"How Far I'll Go.\" Disney expects the remake to perform similarly to recent live-action adaptations:

Disney's live-action strategy has drawn criticism for lacking originality, but president of motion picture production Sean Bailey defends the approach: \"When we can honor beloved stories while introducing them to new generations with today's filmmaking tools, it's worth doing right.\"

The studio has assembled a cultural advisory group including Polynesian elders, anthropologists, and linguists to ensure authentic representation. Production won't begin until 2025 as filmmakers conduct extensive research trips through Samoa, Fiji, Tonga, and Tahiti.

Industry analysts note the project comes as Disney seeks reliable franchises amid Marvel and Star Wars volatility. Animated-to-live-action remakes have proven consistently profitable, with combined earnings exceeding $9 billion across 10 releases since 2010.

Director search is underway, with Disney prioritizing Pacific Islander filmmakers. The studio recently signed a first-look deal with Taika Waititi, though he's not currently attached. Miranda confirmed he's writing at least two new songs while preserving fan favorites like \"You're Welcome\" and \"Shiny.\"