Disney's “Moana” is getting a live-action treatment, and Auli'i Cravalho, who voiced the animated film's title character, says it's important to her. No to resume the role.
Dwayne Johnson, who played the demigod Maui in the 2016 animated film, announced last year that a live-action reimagining of “Moana” was underway and said fans could see him play Maui in person. And although Cravalho signed on to executive produce the film, she followed Johnson's announcement with the news that he would opt to remain behind the camera on the project.
“When I was cast as Moana at age 14, it wonderfully changed my life and began my career,” she said in an Instagram video last May. “In this live-action version, I will not reprise the role. I think it's absolutely vital that the casting accurately represents the characters and stories we want to tell, so as executive producer of the film, I can't wait to help find the next actress who portrays the brave spirit, the wit undeniable and emotional strength of Moana. ”
The 23-year-old, who plays Janis 'Imi'ike in the new musical version of “Mean Girls” hitting theaters Friday, told Wrap that while the “Moana” universe is expanding with an upcoming Disney+ animated series (coming this year), as well as the live-action remake (2025), had declined to play the character again as a deliberate move to pave the way for greater representation of Pacific Islanders in Hollywood.
“I think it's very important to pass the baton to the next young woman descended from the Pacific Islands, and I say it with all my heart…” Cravalho told the outlet. “I am one of the few Pacific Islanders. And it is very important to tell our stories.”
The actor went on to say that the Pacific Islands, specifically Hawaii, are very often used to tell other stories, “White Lotus” style, and it is important to her that Pacific Islanders be able to tell their own stories.
“I want to be behind the camera as much as in front of it,” he said. “When I talk about representation, I want to see the same thing happen in writers' rooms. I want the same to happen with directors. And Taika Waititi also talks about this: I want to see showrunners who are also of indigenous descent telling their own stories.”
Cravalho added that if he has to start with her, so be it. “I want that door to open wide and I can't wait to meet the next Moana.”
Disney's live-action movie “Moana” is scheduled to hit theaters on June 27, 2025.
