With Dwayne Johnson reprising his role as the demigod Maui and Catherine Laga'aia stepping into the title role, the live-action Moana is shaping up to be one of Disney's most anticipated 2026 releases. Fathom Journal shared a concept trailer that has fans buzzing — and asking one very important question: who fills out the rest of this cast?
The Supporting Cast Is Wide Open
The confirmed leads are genuinely exciting. Laga'aia is a fresh face who brings authentic Polynesian heritage to the role, and Johnson returning as Maui is a natural fit — he voiced the character originally and has a personal connection to the mythology. But Moana is a story packed with memorable characters, and the supporting cast could make or break this adaptation. Gramma Tala, the warm-hearted storyteller who sets Moana on her path. Chief Tui, her protective father. Sina, her quietly supportive mother. And then there's Tamatoa — the giant, glittering, Bowie-obsessed crab who arguably steals the entire animated film. These roles need actors who can bring both cultural authenticity and serious charisma to the table.
What myCast Fans Are Already Saying
The myCast community has been building out their dream versions of this film across multiple fan-cast stories, and the picks are genuinely worth discussing.
Over on the Moana story with 14 total votes, fans have made some compelling choices. Maia Kealoha leads the vote count with 4 votes for Toddler Moana — a nod to her breakout role in The Descendants and her obvious chemistry with younger audiences. For Chief Tui, fans are backing Antonio Te Maioha with 2 votes, a New Zealand actor with real screen presence who would bring gravitas to Moana's father. Cooper Andrews has picked up 3 votes for Maui in that same story — interesting given that Johnson is already confirmed, but it shows fans were thinking about the role even before the official announcement.
For Tamatoa, Rhys Darby has emerged as an early fan favorite — and honestly, it's hard to argue with this one. The New Zealand comedian and actor has the comedic timing, the flair for the theatrical, and the Polynesian cultural connection that the role demands. Over on the companion story, is turning up in fan picks for Sina across both stories — she has the vocal talent, the look, and the Hawaiian heritage that would make her a meaningful choice. is also in the conversation for Gramma Tala, picking up an early vote.
