Dwayne Johnson Confirmed as Maui in Live-Action Moana

Dwayne 'The Rock' Johnson has been spotted on the beaches of Hawaii filming for Disney's highly anticipated live-action adaptation of 'Moana', reprising his role as the demigod Maui. Johnson is seen embodying Maui with his signature long hair, tattoos, and leaf skirt, wielding the iconic fish hook that allows shapeshifting. Accompanying him is 17-year-old actress Catherine Laga'aia, who plays Moana, taking over from Auliʻi Cravalho who voiced the original animated character. The film, directed by Thomas Kail with music by Lin-Manuel Miranda, is scheduled for a July 2026 release. Johnson, who is of Samoan descent, has expressed personal passion for the role, drawing inspiration from his grandfather, High Chief Peter Maivia. This live-action project continues Disney's trend of remaking animated classics, ensuring cultural representation and authenticity through its casting choices.