Dwayne 'The Rock' Johnson Praises Moana's Message of 'Real Masculinity'

The actor says the Disney film's hero represents a powerful, vulnerable demigod that breaks stereotypes.

Apr. 18, 2026 at 10:06pm

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An abstract close-up image of crashing ocean waves against dark volcanic rock, captured in high-contrast studio lighting to create a sense of raw, natural power and elemental beauty.The live-action Moana remake promises to bring the film's themes of empowerment and cultural representation to life with a fresh visual energy.Las Vegas Today

Dwayne 'The Rock' Johnson and the new Moana actress, Catherine Laga'aia, presented the upcoming live-action remake of the Disney animated film at CinemaCon in Las Vegas. Johnson, who is reprising his role as the demigod Maui, praised the original Moana for its empowering message about masculinity, saying 'the hero of our story is not a princess, she's a warrior' and that 'all men of all ages, we should empower and support and champion all women. That's what real masculinity looks like.'

Why it matters

The live-action Moana remake provides an opportunity to further amplify the film's themes about challenging traditional gender roles and stereotypes around masculinity. As one of the few major studio films led by Polynesian actors, it also gives greater visibility to Polynesian culture and storytelling.

The details

Johnson noted that Maui is a 'powerful and vulnerable demigod' who ultimately steps aside to let Moana save the day, rather than hogging all the glory. The actor has been protective of the Moana character and story, seeing it as an important representation of Polynesian people. The director of the live-action remake also said the chance to have 'flesh and blood' tell Moana's hero's journey made the project worthwhile.

  • Moana was originally released in 2016.
  • The live-action remake is scheduled for release on July 10, 2026.

The players

Dwayne 'The Rock' Johnson

The actor who is reprising his role as the demigod Maui in the live-action Moana remake.

Catherine Laga'aia

The actress playing the title role in the live-action Moana remake.

Moana

The Disney animated film about a young Polynesian woman who embarks on a journey to save her island.

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What they’re saying

“The hero of our story is not a princess, she's a warrior. All men of all ages, we should empower and support and champion all women. That's what real masculinity looks like.”

— Dwayne 'The Rock' Johnson, Actor

“The animated version was just an amazing experience for us as Polynesian people. Maui has been with me for over a decade, and to have the opportunity to bring this powerful and vulnerable demigod to life means so much to me.”

— Dwayne 'The Rock' Johnson, Actor

What’s next

Fans can look forward to seeing the live-action Moana in theaters on July 10, 2026.

The takeaway

The live-action Moana remake provides an opportunity to further amplify the original film's empowering message about challenging traditional gender roles and stereotypes around masculinity. As one of the few major studio films led by Polynesian actors, it also gives greater visibility to Polynesian culture and storytelling.