Is Hollywood ready for its next Polynesian princess? Catherine Laga'aia, a rising star with Samoan heritage, is poised to make waves as the titular character in Disney's live-action remake of Moana. Her journey from a relatively unknown actress to a household name is a testament to her talent, dedication, and the enduring power of representation.
Laga'aia's casting is a significant moment for Pacific Islander representation in mainstream media. Disney's global search for a young woman to embody the spirit of Moana culminated in the discovery of this Australian teenager, whose connection to her Polynesian roots resonated deeply with the casting directors. This decision underscores a growing commitment within the entertainment industry to showcase diverse talent and stories that reflect the rich tapestry of cultures around the world. The live-action Moana, scheduled for release next year, promises to introduce Laga'aia to a global audience and further cement her place as a role model for aspiring young actors, particularly those from underrepresented communities.
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Laga'aia's journey to becoming Moana has been a whirlwind. As of February 16th of this year, rumors circulated that Disney had found their star. By June 2024, the official announcement confirmed what many had suspected: Catherine Laga'aia would take on the titular role, starring opposite Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson, who reprises his role as the demigod Maui.
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The young actress isn't entirely new to the world of acting. She played the role of young Candy in the 2023 Amazon Prime series The Lost Flowers of Alice Hart, a poignant story exploring themes of family, secrets, and resilience. This experience undoubtedly provided valuable preparation for the demanding role of Moana. She also benefits from a family connection to the entertainment industry. Her father, Jay Laga'aia, is a seasoned actor with decades of experience, including roles in Star Wars: Episode II Attack of the Clones and Star Wars: Episode III Revenge of the Sith (as Captain Typho). He also hosted the Australian children's television show Jay's Jungle. This familial connection to the performing arts likely fostered Laga'aia's own passion for acting.
The original Moana, released in 2016, quickly became a beloved animated classic. The story of a young Polynesian princess who embarks on a daring ocean voyage to save her people resonated with audiences worldwide. Auli'i Cravalho, who voiced Moana in the animated film, expressed her excitement for the live-action adaptation. The casting of Laga'aia, a young woman of Samoan heritage, reinforces the importance of authentic representation and cultural sensitivity in storytelling.
Filming for the live-action Moana has taken place in Hawaii, adding another layer of authenticity to the production. Laga'aia has expressed her excitement and honor at representing young girls who look like her, recognizing the profound impact that seeing oneself reflected on screen can have. She has shared her enthusiasm for embodying a character she considers a personal favorite, emphasizing the deep connection she feels to Moanas journey of self-discovery and cultural pride.
Dwayne Johnson, who returns as Maui, has also voiced his support for Laga'aia and the project. With a powerhouse cast, a compelling story, and a dedication to honoring Polynesian culture, the live-action Moana is poised to be one of the most anticipated films of next year. Catherine Laga'aia, on the cusp of international stardom, embodies the future of Hollywood a future where diverse voices and stories take center stage.
