What happened?
Earlier this year, it was announced by Dwayne Johnson, A.K.A “The Rock,” that a live-action Moana movie was in the works. With this announcement, fans immediately expressed excitement over the new movie, as the animated version was massively loved. Fans also began wondering which of the famous actors from the first would be reprising their role in the upcoming film.
As of now, it looks like Dwayne Johnson is signed, sealed, and delivered to play the role of Maui in the upcoming film. The question that remained was if his costar, Auliʻi Cravalho, would be returning as Moana.
Disney Goes in a Different Direction for Moana
Auliʻi Cravalho has just announced that she will not be reprising her role in the upcoming film. Many fans are completely shocked and heartbroken by this news. In a video posted to the actress’s Instagram, Auliʻi explains her thoughts on the decision. She said,
“Aloha Mai Kakou. As I’m sure you’ve heard by now, live-action Moana is in the works, and you all have been waiting very patiently for updates. So, I’ve written a few things down. When I was cast as Moana at 14, it wonderfully changed my life and started my career. In this live-action retelling, I will not be reprising the role. I believe it is absolutely vital the cast accurately represents the characters and stories we want to tell. So, as an executive producer of the film, I cannot wait to help find the next actress to portray Moana’s courageous spirit, undeniable wit, and emotional strength. So, as an executive producer of the film, I cannot wait to help find the next actress to portray Moana’s courageous spirit, undeniable wit, and emotional strength.”
Why Was Auliʻi Replaced?
Soon after Auliʻi posted this video, a casting call was released by The Telsey Office, a casting agency that often casts Disney live-action movies. The casting call makes it clear that they are looking for someone who is 16, and Auliʻi is 22. She may have been too old for the role.
However, fans are not taking this news lightly. Her comment section is swamped with people demanding answers about how Disney could replace her. It is clear that many fans are extremely upset with this news.
