New Moana Star's Nerves Singing for Original Voice

Catherine Laga'aia, the 19-year-old actress cast as Moana, shared her experience recording a new song for the live-action remake. She confessed to feeling nervous while laying down vocals for "Along the Way," as she was the first to record it. Laga'aia noted that Auli'i Cravalho and Dwayne Johnson had not yet recorded their parts, making the prospect of them hearing her rendition particularly nerve-wracking yet thrilling.

Laga'aia expressed her excitement about becoming part of the Moana legacy alongside Cravalho and Johnson, who voiced Moana and Maui in the original animated film. Director Thomas Kail selected Laga'aia from thousands of submissions, reportedly seeing her embody Moana within moments of meeting her. She aimed to make the role her own, following advice to do something different rather than matching the original film.

Cravalho, an executive producer on the new film, offered Laga'aia support, emphasizing the importance of her unique interpretation. Cravalho commended Laga'aia's confidence and "chutzpah" on set, particularly her ability to remain composed. The live-action Moana is scheduled to debut in theaters on July 10, 2026.