This week, Disney revealed that Moana 2 was coming, and would release later this year. Now, we have an update on the status of stars Dwayne Johnson and Auli’i Cravalho.
According to a recent report from Deadline, Johnson — who played Maui in the original film — is not only in talks to return for the sequel, but that it’s “looking good” to happen.
As for Cravalho — who starred as Moana — it’s unclear whether or not she will return. Deadline notes she’s in talks, but that they aren’t as close as Johnson’s have been.
Cravalho already confirmed last year that she would not be appearing in the upcoming live-action version of Moana, a move that fans found surprising at the time. That film is still in the works at Disney, though will reportedly be delayed a bit due to various factors.
What do we know about Moana 2?
Walt Disney Company Chief Executive Officer Bob Iger announced that Moana 2 is now in the works. A teaser trailer was also revealed, showing Moana on the beach with a seashell. The sequel is set to release in theaters on Wednesday, November 27, 2024.
“Walt Disney Animation Studios’ epic animated musical Moana 2 takes audiences on an expansive new voyage with Moana, Maui and a brand-new crew of unlikely seafarers,” reads the film‘s synopsis. “After receiving an unexpected call from her wayfinding ancestors, Moana must journey to the far seas of Oceania and into dangerous, long-lost waters for an adventure unlike anything she’s ever faced.”
The original film was directed by Ron Clements and John Musker. It was not only a commercial success with a gross of over $600 million, but it also earned positive reviews from critics and earned two Oscar nominations including Best Animated Feature and Best Original Song.
