Dwayne Johnson recently attended a special press event for the live action version of Moana at the Walt Disney Grand Theatre in Shanghai Disney Resort, China. The 54 year old actor was joined by a large crowd of fans who gathered to see him and learn more about the upcoming film.
During the event, Dwayne first appeared wearing a white suit along with a floral lei. Later, he changed into a black and red floral print shirt and wore another lei while participating in a photo session. He was also photographed holding the magical fishhook associated with his character, Maui, from the popular Moana story.
The live action adaptation follows the story of Moana, a young girl who answers the Ocean’s call and begins a new adventure. This time, she travels beyond the reef surrounding her home island of Motunui. Along the way, she is joined by the demigod Maui as they work together on a journey aimed at helping restore prosperity to her people.
Dwayne Johnson is returning to play Maui, a character he previously voiced in the animated films. Catherine Laga’aia has been cast in the lead role of Moana for the live action adaptation. The film also features Rena Owen as Moana’s grandmother, Gramma Tala, John Tui as her father, Chief Tui, and Frankie Adams as her mother, Sina.
Another recent update about the project involves Jemaine Clement, who has been confirmed to return as Tamatoa. He will once again voice the giant crab character that first appeared in the animated films. Tamatoa became one of the memorable characters in the franchise because of his flashy personality and love for attention.
Apart from starring in the film, Dwayne Johnson is also working behind the scenes as an executive producer. Original Moana voice actor Auli’i Cravalho is also serving as an executive producer on the project.
The live action version of Moana is scheduled to be released in theaters on July 10th. With filming updates, casting announcements and promotional events continuing to take place, audiences are gradually learning more about the new adaptation before its arrival on the big screen.
Dwayne Johnson turns a beach stop into a core memory for fans. The Rock brought his Maui character's magic to Hawaii during the Moana global tour. #DwayneJohnson #TheRock #Moana #MauiMagic #gossipherald pic.twitter.com/NqkwogEGlh
— GossipHerald (@Gossip_Herald) June 19, 2026