Disney has yet to reveal who is playing Moana in the upcoming live-action remake alongside Dwayne Johnson, who returns as Maui. However, Disney has sent out an open casting call for another popular character.
The studio is looking to cast a pacific islander actress in their 60s to play Moana’s fun loving grandma, Tala. The studio is seeking someone who can sing and dance as well bring some comedic chops to the role. Very similar to the character from the 2016 animated original.
An eccentric storyteller from the island of Motunui, Tala is the mother of Chief Tui and grandmother of Moana. Because of her passion for ancient Polynesian myths and legends, Tala regards herself as the “village crazy lady.”
Dwayne Johnson is set to act as producer for the film, via his production company, Seven Bucks Productions. His co-star in the 2016 animated film, Auli’i Cravalho, who voiced the titular character, will executive produce with Scott Sheldon of Flynn Picture Co.. Cravalho will not be reprising the role Moana, but an actor has been cast according to Johnson.
Thomas Kail is on board to direct from a script by Jared Bush, who wrote the original. Lin-Manuel Miranda may not be returning for Moana 2, which is in the works at Disney Animation Studios, but is on board for the remake.
Moana is scheduled to be released on June 27, 2025.
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